Retired High Court judge B.R. Kataky carried out a detailed inspection of coal mining areas in Meghalaya’s West Khasi Hills and Garo Hills on April 8, focusing on steps taken to check illegal mining and transportation.The visit covered several key locations in the state’s mining belt. In West Khasi Hills, Kataky visited Hatiabari, where he reviewed ground-level mining activities and assessed whether rules are being followed. He also interacted with officials and suggested measures to improve monitoring systems and close gaps in enforcement.
In North Garo Hills, the retired judge inspected Smart Coal Gates at Sarangma and checked transport points to see how coal movement is being tracked. He also visited Mendipathar Railway Station, which is an important coal loading point, and examined how coal is handled and transported from the site.Officials said the inspection was aimed at checking how effectively the system is working to stop illegal mining and transport. The focus was also on improving coordination between departments and ensuring that rules are properly implemented on the ground.
A review meeting was held at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in North Garo Hills. Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police from different coal-mining districts attended the meeting. They discussed ways to strengthen surveillance, improve coordination, and take stricter action against illegal activities.Later, another coordination meeting was held with officials from Baghmara, Williamnagar, and North Garo Hills. The discussion highlighted the need for better coordination between districts to deal with ongoing violations.