Meghalaya marked a key milestone today with the first-ever commercial transport of scientifically mined coal. Two trucks—one headed to Bihar and another to Uttar Pradesh—were ceremonially flagged off at 17th Mile, Byrnihat, near Guwahati, by a traditional Khasi king.

The coal originated from the Saryngkham-A mine at Byndihati in East Jaintia Hills, operated by leaseholder Dapmain Shylla. This mine, inaugurated on 17 March by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, is the first to begin operations under Meghalaya’s newly approved scientific coal mining framework. Officials believe this will play a role in reducing India’s dependence on imported coal.

This breakthrough follows tripartite agreements signed in January 2024 between the central government and three miners from the state. It also signals a fresh start after the 2014 ban on unscientific rat-hole mining by the National Green Tribunal, imposed due to serious environmental and safety concerns. The ban was lifted in 2019 after the Supreme Court allowed scientific mining under regulated conditions.

Local traders are optimistic that this new regime will boost the regional economy while enhancing transparency. For years, coal transport through Meghalaya, Assam, West Bengal, and Bihar was marred by illegal levies—reportedly as high as Rs 3 million in so-called "goonda tax" per shipment. The adoption of GST-compliant documentation is expected to eradicate these practices.

Before the 2014 ban, Meghalaya’s coal industry generated approximately Rs 7 billion annually. So far, 12 leaseholders have been appointed by the state government and Coal India Limited to undertake scientific mining, a move officials say will curb illegal extraction and ensure sustainable, accountable operations.