Source: Thgim.com

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Context

In Meghalaya, the debate over rat-hole coal mining resurfaces ahead of elections, with stakeholders seeking exemptions under Article 371 amid economic and environmental concerns.

About Mining

• Mining is a process of extraction of minerals. Human development has witnessed the stages of the Copper Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age, marking the discovery and utilization of minerals. Initially, minerals were used for crafting tools, utensils, and weapons.
• However, the true era of mineral exploration emerged during the Industrial Revolution, and its significance continues to grow.

Extraction Methods

Two types of methods are followed which vary in their nature mainly due to mineral ore characteristics:

Surface Mining (Open-cast method): Ideal for minerals near the surface.

This is a cost-effective method that yields high and quick production.

Underground Mining (Shaft Method): When ore lies deep, this method involves sinking vertical shafts and creating galleries for mineral extraction and transportation.

It carries higher risks due to potential hazards like gases, fires, floods, and cave-ins.

About Rat-Hole Mining

Rat Hole Mining is a method of extracting coal from narrow, horizontal seams, widely prevalent in Meghalaya.

The term “rat hole” refers to the narrow pits dug into the ground, typically just large enough for one person to descend and extract coal.

Once the pits are dug, miners descend using ropes or bamboo ladders to reach the coal seams.

The coal is then manually extracted using primitive tools such as pickaxes, shovels, and baskets.

The other type of rat-hole mining is called box-cutting.

In this type, a rectangular opening is made, varying from 10 to 100 sqm, and through that a vertical pit is dug, 100 to 400 feet deep.

• Rat-Hole Mining Hazards
  • • Safety Concerns
      • Lack of proper ventilation, structural support, and safety gear.
      • Frequent accidents resulting in injuries and fatalities.
    • Environmental Impact
      • Causes land degradation and deforestation.
      • Contributes to water pollution.
• Rat-Hole Mining Challenges
  • • Socioeconomic Challenges
      • Practices persist due to economic factors.
      • Lack of alternative livelihoods for local communities hinders regulation.
    • Regulatory Issues
      • Mines are often unregulated despite efforts to ban or control them.
      • The practice continues to face severe criticism for its risks and environmental damage.

• NGT Ban and Observations
  • • The National Green Tribunal (NGT) banned rat-hole mining in 2014 and upheld the ban in 2015.
    • Highlighted numerous fatalities caused by flooding in mining areas during the rainy season.

Sources:

HINDU