Trucks are seen transporting boulders extracted from the Chathe River. (Morung File Photo: For Representative Purposes Only)
Medziphema, November 25 (MExN): A meeting of the Medziphema Sub-division level enforcement committee was convened on November 24 to address the monitoring, regulation, and enforcement of riverbed mining activities in the Chathe River and its tributaries.
The meeting, held at the ADC's conference hall, was chaired by Additional Deputy Commissioner P James Swu.
According to a DIPR report, Swu emphasised the need to strengthen the oversight of mining activities in the area. He stated that the committee's primary goal should be the protection and revival of the Chathe River and its tributaries.
During the meeting, representatives from the Department of Geology & Mining and the Forest Department outlined their respective roles and responsibilities.
A key issue raised was from Pherima Gaon Bura, who voiced grievances on behalf of the local community, explaining the adverse effects of mining on residents and the agricultural sector.
The committee reviewed the current status of riverbed mining, examined existing permits and licenses, and deliberated on actions to be taken against illegal mining operations. Further discussions centred on community concerns, the impact of mining on local livelihoods and agriculture, routine inspection protocols for the Chathe riverbed, and the formulation of an action plan with responsibilities assigned to specific departments.
The meeting also decided to clean and decorate all villages under Medziphema sub-division for beautification during the festive session.
The meeting was attended by all members of enforcement committee, it added.
