Khliehriat, February 11: The District Magistrate of East Jaintia Hills District has ordered the immediate dismantling and removal of coal lifting cranes and related machinery from the site of the recent explosion at Mynsngat Thangsko area, citing public safety concerns and the need to prevent illegal coal extraction.
According to an official order issued under Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, the decision follows a report submitted by the Superintendent of Police through the Inquiry Officer seeking permission to clear lifting cranes found at the place of occurrence where the explosion caused deaths and injuries in adjoining areas.
The order noted that three to four coal mines operate in close proximity at Mynsngat Thangsko and that fresh coal extraction activities using heavy machinery, including lifting cranes, were reportedly ongoing. Authorities observed that the machinery posed a public hazard and could potentially be used for illegal mining activities.
The District Magistrate further stated that illegal coal extraction remains prohibited following the ban imposed by the National Green Tribunal in 2014, making it necessary to prevent the use of heavy equipment for unlawful operations.
District Magistrate Shri Manish Kumar, IAS, in his directive, permitted dismantling of unlawful obstructions such as coal lifting cranes, tents, and other structures at the explosion site, subject to strict procedural safeguards. The dismantling process will be carried out under the supervision of the Investigating Officer, with mandatory photographic documentation before and after removal. The Inquiry Officer has also been directed to record geo-tagged GPS coordinates of the site, and a comprehensive Action Taken Report is to be submitted to the District Magistrate’s office.
The order has been directed to be executed immediately. Officials stated that the move aims to ensure public safety, preserve evidence, and curb illegal mining activities in the affected area.
