Court mandates strict enforcement of legal procedures to prevent environmental degradation and illegal mining activities.
In a significant move to combat illegal mining activities and environmental degradation, the Meghalaya High Court has taken suo motu cognizance of unauthorized mineral transportation activities in the state. The Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Mrs. Revati Mohite Dere and Justice H.S. Thangkhiew directed strict adherence to legal procedures concerning the mining and transportation of minerals in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) registered based on a letter dated April 15, 2026.
The court's intervention comes in response to allegations of rampant illegal transportation of boulders and minerals, particularly towards the Bangladesh border along NH-206. The letter raised concerns over heavy motor vehicles, including trucks and dumper trucks, operating without requisite registration plates and documents. Supporting evidence, including photographs and videos, highlighted the environmental damage, public infrastructure strain, and adverse impacts on local residents due to these unauthorized activities.
The High Court noted that mining operations in sensitive areas require strict adherence to environmental clearances and approved operational plans to ensure sustainable resource utilization. The bench expressed concern over the apparent administrative inaction allowing vehicles to operate without registration plates or valid documents, which undermines the rule of law.
To address these issues, the court has directed the impleadment of multiple state and central government agencies, including the State of Meghalaya, the Directorate of Mineral Resources, the Forest Department, and the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board, among others, as respondents. Notices have been issued to these entities, and the Advocate General, along with other legal representatives, has been tasked with providing affidavits detailing measures taken under various legal frameworks, such as the Meghalaya Minor Minerals Concession Rules, 2016, and the Meghalaya Mineral (Prevention of Illegal Mining, Transportation and Storage) Rules, 2022.
In its interim order, the court has mandated that no vehicle should pass through checkpoints without valid mineral transport challans and necessary documentation. Vehicles found without requisite licenses or documentation are subject to seizure, and a comprehensive drive is to be conducted to ensure mineral excavation occurs only in licensed areas. The court emphasized the need for vehicles transporting minerals to possess fitness certificates and Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificates.
The order has been forwarded to relevant authorities, including the Commissioner of Transport and the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, to facilitate compliance. The case is scheduled for further hearing on April 28, 2026, with all respondents expected to file detailed affidavits by then.
Bottom Line:
Authorities directed to ensure adherence to legal procedures for transportation of minerals, prevent illegal mining, and mitigate environmental damage.
Statutory provision(s): Meghalaya Minor Minerals Concession Rules, 2016; Meghalaya Mines and Minerals Policy, 2012; Meghalaya Mineral (Prevention of Illegal Mining, Transportation and Storage) Rules, 2022.
