Tura, Feb 10: In a strong enforcement drive against illegal mining and pollution violations, a District Level Task Force (DLTF) carried out a seizure and demolition operation targeting unauthorized brick kilns and illegal brick earth mining in the Gomaijhora area of Phulbari and Batabara in West Garo Hills.
The operation followed investigations and reports from multiple sources flagging unlawful extraction of brick earth and the setting up of brick kilns without mandatory clearances. Authorities found that the units were operating in clear violation of the Meghalaya Minor Mineral Concession Rules (MMMCR), 2016.
Officials confirmed that the kiln operators had neither obtained a valid Consent to Establish (CTE) nor a Consent to Operate (CTO) from the State Pollution Control Board.
Despite being served show cause notices earlier, the operators allegedly continued their activities, prompting decisive action from the administration.
The DLTF — comprising representatives from the District Administration, Police, Forest Department, Water Resources Department, the State Pollution Control Board, and two independent members — authorized immediate demolition of the illegal brick kilns and seizure of all unlawfully mined brick earth.
During the operation, two JCB excavators and a dumper truck were deployed to dismantle the structures and transport the seized materials to the Range Office for safe custody.
Rupanker K. Marak, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO)-cum-Member Secretary of the DLTF, West & South-West Garo Hills T Division, Tura, confirmed that the crackdown is part of an ongoing effort to curb illegal brick earth mining and environmentally damaging practices in the region.
He stated that regular inspections and monitoring will continue to prevent recurrence of such violations. Authorities have also urged citizens to report instances of illegal brick earth mining and unauthorized brick kilns to the department.
Illegal brick earth mining has been a growing concern in parts of Meghalaya, often leading to land degradation, deforestation, and adverse impacts on water resources.
Officials indicated that further legal proceedings may follow against those found responsible, in accordance with applicable environmental and mining laws.
The district administration reiterated its commitment to safeguarding natural resources and ensuring that industrial activities comply with environmental norms and statutory regulations.
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