Mining and Mineral Resources – Meghalaya PCS Free Notes

Meghalaya, nestled in the northeastern hills of India, is endowed with a rich variety of mineral resources. While these resources hold the potential for economic growth, their extraction has also been a source of environmental and social concerns. This article delves into the complexities of mining in Meghalaya, exploring its mineral wealth, the challenges it faces, and the path toward sustainable mining practices.

Mineral Wealth

Meghalaya's diverse geology has resulted in a variety of mineral deposits, including:

Coal: The state has significant coal reserves, primarily of the sub-bituminous type. These are located in the Garo, Khasi, and Jaintia Hills.

Limestone: Abundant limestone deposits are found throughout the state, contributing to the cement industry.

Other Minerals: Meghalaya also possesses deposits of uranium, granite, kaolin, clay, and glass sand, though their exploitation is limited.

The Mining Landscape

Historically, coal mining has been a dominant activity in Meghalaya, often carried out through small-scale, unregulated "rat-hole mining." This method involves digging narrow tunnels to extract coal, posing significant risks to miners' safety and the environment.

Challenges and Concerns

Environmental Degradation: Mining activities, particularly rat-hole mining, have led to severe environmental problems:

Water Pollution: Acid mine drainage contaminates water sources, impacting aquatic life and human health.

Deforestation: Mining operations often clear forests, leading to habitat loss and soil erosion.

Land Degradation: The landscape is scarred with abandoned mines and spoil heaps.

Safety Hazards: Rat-hole mining is notoriously dangerous, with frequent accidents and fatalities. The lack of safety regulations and inadequate equipment put miners at constant risk.

Social Impacts: Mining can displace communities and disrupt traditional livelihoods. Conflicts over land ownership and resource access are also common.

Illegal Mining: Despite bans and regulations, illegal coal mining continues in Meghalaya, posing challenges for enforcement and sustainable resource management.

Sustainable Mining Practices

Recognizing the need for change, the Meghalaya government and various stakeholders are working towards sustainable mining practices:

Regulation and Enforcement: Stricter regulations and their enforcement are crucial to curb illegal mining and ensure safe and environmentally sound practices.

Scientific Mining Methods: Promoting scientific mining methods can minimize environmental damage and improve safety.

Rehabilitation and Reclamation: Abandoned mines need to be rehabilitated and reclaimed to restore the landscape and prevent further environmental degradation.

Community Participation: Involving local communities in decision-making processes is essential to address their concerns and ensure equitable benefits from mining activities.

Alternative Livelihoods: Providing alternative livelihood options can reduce dependence on unsustainable mining practices.

Meghalaya PSC Notes brings Prelims and Mains programs for Meghalaya PSC Prelims and Meghalaya PSC Mains Exam preparation. Various Programs initiated by Meghalaya PSC Notes are as follows:-

For any doubt, Just leave us a Chat or Fill us a querry––