SHILLONG: The Meghalaya government is yet to submit any proposals for the utilisation of the Rs 100 crore allocated under the Meghalaya Environmental Protection and Restoration Fund (MERPF) aimed at restoring the state’s environment, according to the 18th Interim Report submitted by Justice (Retd) BP Katakey.
The report, focusing on the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) against illegal coal mining, highlighted that the funds spent from the MEPRF are pending an audit.
Justice Katakey, in his report presented before the Meghalaya High Court on November 14, highlighted that despite the Rs 100 crore, along with accrued interest, being available with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), it remains unutilised.
The primary reason cited is the absence of proposals from the state government, as confirmed by a representative of the Central Pollution Control Board.
The Oversight Committee, appointed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), is actively investigating this aspect.
In response to this, Justice Katakey directed the Secretary of the Mining and Geology department, along with the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB), to promptly submit the necessary proposals to the Central Pollution Control Board.
Additionally, a comprehensive audit of the fund was recommended for transparency and accountability.
Meanwhile, the state government has also received instructions to formulate rules and guidelines for scientific mining practices, encompassing the extraction and transportation of coal.
Justice Katakey, in his 18th Interim Report, has expressed concerns about the potential resurgence of illegal coal mining and stressed on the need for immediate measures to curb such activities.
The report was compiled following a field visit conducted by Justice Katakey in East Jaintia Hills District and West Khasi Hills District on November 7.
The visit involved consultations with the Director of Mineral Resources, representatives from the district and police administration, and other government officials to assess the mining scenario in the region.
