Government Takes Concrete Measures to Eradicate Illegal Coke Plants

 Government of Meghalaya has taken decisive action to address the issue of

illegal coke plants in the state and also ensure compliance to the orders of the

Hon’ble High Court of Meghalaya. Action had already been initiated against the

illegal coke plats in December 2022 by shutting down the illegal plants and

initiate the process of dismantling the bee-hive coke ovens to ensure that they

do not become operational again. This process continued till April 2023

resulting in significant progress in eradication of these unlawful

establishments.

In consonance with the Government’s commitment towards enforcing the law

and directives of Hon’ble High Court, unequivocal directions were issued to

demolish the entire infrastructure behind these unlawful establishments and

identify and prosecute the culprits behind this illegal activity. Consequently,

the demolition of chimneys and other physical infrastructure of the illegal

plants has commenced from the 8 th of July, 2023. 3 chimneys have been

demolished till 10 th July 02023 and the work is targeted to be completed by 20 th

of July. Several persons behind these illegal operations have been identified

and arrested.

The concrete measures and proactive steps of the government in executing

these actions to dismantle the infrastructure supporting the illegal coke plants

are contrary to any perception of silence on the issue.

The government remains steadfast in its commitment towards upholding the

rule of law and preserving the pristine environment of the state for its

residents. The eradication of illegal coke plants is an essential step towards

achieving these objectives and restoring the region's ecological balance.

The government urges all residents, local community members, and relevant

stakeholders to support these measures and cooperate with the authorities

during the ongoing operation.