- NET Web Desk
The Meghalaya Government has assured punitive measures against 31 illegal coke units functioning under Elaka Sutnga in East Jaintia Hills district.
The state Forest and Environment Minister James PK Sangma made the assurance to a delegation of Environment Coordination Committee (ECC) of Elaka Sutnga.
This committee called on the minister to reiterate on steps taken by the government, as 5-day deadline issued for closure of all illegal coke plants operating within the region had already concluded.
According to ECC’s legal adviser, the government is yet to decide the names for the expert committee.
However, East Jaintia Hills Deputy Commissioner, Ethelbert Kharmalki has sought more time to take action against the illegal coke plants after the end of 5-day deadline.
It is pertinent to note that recently the cabinet announced formation of expert panel to extensively study the repercussions of coke factories in the northeastern state.
The decision for the same has been undertaken after a Civil Society Organization (CSO) staged protest rallies in East Jaintia Hills for the permanent closure of illegal coke factories functioning across the district.
According to state’s Environment and Forest Minister James P.K. Sangma, the panel will recommend environmental safeguards to understand the impacts caused by these coke units.
Besides, the committee will also address public health issues, forest clearances and pollution load study.