Meghalaya CM Announces Pilot Projects to Close Abandoned Coal Mines

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma announced that the state has initiated pilot projects aimed at closing abandoned coal mines that pose safety and environmental risks. The initiatives will focus on sealing unsafe shafts, reclaiming the land and mitigating hazards such as water contamination and landslides. The government plans to collaborate with technical experts and secure funding from central agencies to ensure the projects meet national safety standards. While detailed timelines were not disclosed, the pilot phase will serve as a template for a larger de‑commissioning programme across the state. The move reflects Meghalaya's broader commitment to sustainable mining practices and community safety.