Meghalaya Minister Kyrmen Shylla expressed optimism that coal mining will resume in the state one day, despite the ongoing challenges and need for perseverance.
Speaking on the matter, Shylla, who is also the MLA of Khliehriat—a region heavily dependent on coal mining—acknowledged the strong hopes of the people under the leadership of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma. He emphasized that the public now has a clearer claim to coal as their resource, along with ownership of land and minerals, fostering confidence for future mining activities.
“Even if it doesn’t happen today, it might happen tomorrow,” Shylla remarked, adding that initial attempts will pave the way for refining coal mining practices. He stressed that efforts must start somewhere to understand and improve extraction methods.
The minister highlighted the growing interest among people, with many already applying for coal mining permits. He noted that these applications signify readiness to adopt modern, scientific methods of coal mining, ensuring better outcomes once operations commence.
