Shillong, March 10: Chief Minister Conrad Sangma said on Monday that the state government has not stopped sand mining and stone quarrying in the state.
In reply to a question by Heavingstone Kharpran (VPP), the chief minister said anyone can apply for sand mining and stone quarrying.
“As the provisions are tedious, we are coming up with new provisions so that permits can be granted after adhering to Forest Act by the applicants.
According to the chief minister, many miners in villages are facing difficulties as the provisions needed to apply are cumbersome due to paper works .
“We are simplifying the process and now they have to follow only two things- provisions of Forest Act and no objection certificate from headman. The chief minister said the government will urge the Centre to declare traditional mining as non-mining activity.
Photo caption: The barren hillock after stone quarrying in Nongthymmai-Garo village in Ri Bhoi (MM file)
