Coke plants are not villains: Meghalaya CM Sangma

Shillong: In Meghalaya, protests against the proliferation of illegal coke factories have been ongoing for years. Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, who also holds the portfolio for forest and environment, sought to downplay the perception of viewing coke plants or any industry solely as villains.

Sangma responded to a zero-hour notice moved by UDP MLA Nujorki Sungoh, referencing a news item in Highland Post titled ‘Nongsning, Umrasong hold protest rally against coke oven plants.’ Sungoh expressed concern over the transformation of green forests into grey patches of land, linking it to potential health issues such as bronchial diseases and cancer, dubbing the region as the “cancer capital.”

Highlighting the news item, Sungoh mentioned five coke plants—M M Minerals, Unique Industry (Second Chimney), Presidium Breez, Magic Coke, and Ioanis Industries Private Limited (Second Chimney)—which were initially denied licenses by the Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board (MSPCB). Later, they were granted licenses and Consent to Establish (CTE) despite protests from local residents.

Sungoh revealed that MM Minerals and Presidium Breez paid compensation of ₹10,000 each to MSPCB, while Magic Coke only paid ₹3,70,000 out of a ₹19,90,000 fine. He expressed surprise that all cases against these plants were withdrawn by MSPCB.

Currently, there are 19 operational coke plants in East Jaintia Hills District alone. Sungoh urged the government to revoke CTEs for units that violated rules and formulate a policy for coke plants in line with directives from the High Court and National Green Tribunal (NGT). He emphasized the need for safety measures for citizens living near these plants.

Sungoh pointed out that some Meghalaya coke plants operating at night lacked filters, violating MSPCB conditions and causing breathing difficulties for nearby residents. He called for inspections to ensure legal coke plants installed filters during operations.

Responding to the notice, Sangma acknowledged the importance of striking a balance between industrial development and environmental concerns. He refuted the idea that all industrial activities were detrimental, emphasising the government’s commitment to balancing ecology and economy.

Sangma addressed health concerns, stating that various factors, including food habits and genetic aspects, contribute to cancer in the state. Regarding Presidium Breeze, he mentioned an inquiry and inspection, stating that actions would be taken if norms were violated.

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