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Context
Background
Why is Illegal Coal Mining Rampant in India?
Prevalence in Abandoned Mines and Remote Areas
High Demand for Coal
Poverty and Unemployment
Weak Regulation and Enforcement
Political Patronage
Rudimentary Mining Techniques
Rat-Hole Mining What is Rat-Hole Mining? Rat-hole mining involves digging narrow, shallow tunnels, usually 3-4 feet deep, which are just wide enough for workers to crawl through. There are two primary types:
Challenges and Risks Rat-hole mining is notorious for its hazardous conditions. Miners often work in confined spaces with poor ventilation, leading to increased risks of asphyxiation. The lack of proper structural support makes the tunnels prone to collapse, while inadequate drainage can lead to flooding. These conditions, combined with the use of rudimentary equipment, result in high fatality rates and severe health risks.
Why is Such Mining Banned? Historical Context and Risks In Meghalaya, where rat-hole mining was prevalent, the legal framework governing land and mining differs due to the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which grants autonomy to the state in managing land and mineral resources. The Coal Mines (Nationalisation) Act of 1973 does not apply here, leaving the regulation largely in the hands of local authorities and landowners. The booming coal mining industry in Meghalaya post-statehood faced challenges with advanced mining technology due to high costs and difficult terrain. As a result, rat-hole mining became a common practice, with laborers risking severe health hazards and safety issues for higher wages compared to other professions.
Environmental and Health Impact Rat-hole mining led to significant environmental degradation, including land erosion, deforestation, and contamination of water sources with high levels of sulphates, iron, and toxic heavy metals. Rivers such as Lukha and Myntdu became too acidic to support aquatic life. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) observed that the flooding of mining areas during the rainy season resulted in numerous fatalities, prompting the ban in April 2014.
Human Rights Concerns The dangers of rat-hole mining were compounded by human rights issues. Reports from NGOs highlighted the exploitation of child labor, with children from Bangladesh and Nepal being employed in these hazardous mines. Despite initial denial by state authorities, the admission of child labor led to increased scrutiny and the eventual NGT ban.
What Led to the NGT Ban? Activist and NGO Efforts Environmentalists and human rights activists have been raising alarms about rat-hole mining for years. Impulse, a Meghalaya-based NGO, played a significant role in documenting the exploitation and unsafe conditions associated with this mining method. Reports produced in collaboration with other organizations revealed that a large number of children were employed in these mines, prompting actions from the National Human Rights Commission and leading to the NGT ban.
What is the Way Forward? Economic and Environmental Considerations Coal seams in Meghalaya are thin, making rat-hole mining more economically viable than opencast mining. Despite the NGT ban, the high stakes for local communities and the pressure on the state government to resume mining legally remain significant.
Recent Developments In May 2023, Meghalaya's Chief Minister announced that the Coal Ministry approved mining leases for several applicants, paving the way for 'scientific' mining methods. These methods aim to minimize environmental impact and adhere to legal standards. However, concerns persist among anti-mining activists about the true extent of 'scientific' practices and the potential for continued exploitation and environmental damage. By addressing the environmental, health, and social issues associated with rat-hole mining, and ensuring rigorous enforcement of legal and safety standards, stakeholders can work towards a more sustainable and humane approach to coal mining in Meghalaya. |
Why Do So Many Workers Die in Illegal Coal Mines?
Lack of Safety Equipment and Protocols
Hazardous Working Conditions
Untrained Workforce
Operator Negligence and Worker Exploitation
Steps Taken to Curb Illegal Mining and Theft in Various Coal Mines
Measures to Address Illegal Mining
Measures to Combat Coal Theft and Pilferage
Why Do Governments Struggle to Cut Down Illegal Coal Mining in India?
Shifting Responsibility
Economic Dependence on Mining
Complex Legal Framework
Social and Political Factors
Measures to Curb Illegal Coal Mining and Theft
Strengthen Regulatory Framework
Enhance Surveillance and Monitoring
Increase Enforcement and Coordination
Strengthen Community Engagement and Support
Improve Mining Practices
Strengthen Legal and Administrative Measures
Promote Transparency and Accountability
Need for Political Will and Cooperation
Conclusion
PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Why do governments in India struggle to effectively combat illegal coal mining? Discuss the key factors and suggest measures to improve control over this issue. |
SOURCE: THE HINDU
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