PolitySource: Indian Express
Rat-Hole Mining: Issues and Implications
Saturday, 7 February 2026
Key Points
Rat-hole mining, a dangerous coal extraction method, poses severe risks to health and the environment, highlighted by the tragic loss of at least 18 workers in Meghalaya. This incident underscores the need for stronger governance and the recognition of significant human rights violations and environmental damage, including flooding and pollution.
Detailed Coverage
- Rat-hole mining is a hazardous method of coal extraction.
- Recent tragedy in Meghalaya led to the death of 18 workers.
- Highlights the need for stronger governance on illegal mining.
- Causes significant human rights violations.
- Severe environmental consequences include flooding and pollution.
- Community reliance on thin coal seams exacerbates the situation.
- Mining involves narrow tunnels requiring miners to crawl.
- NGT banned rat-hole mining in 2014 due to its dangers.
- Economic dependence on coal mining persists in local communities.
- Local industries' demand for cheap coal fuels illegal mining.
- Safety hazards include roof collapses and toxic gas exposure.
- Acid Mine Drainage contaminates water bodies.
- Deforestation leads to biodiversity loss and soil erosion.
- Workers face health risks like silicosis due to coal dust exposure.
- Regulatory challenges complicate enforcement of mining laws.
- Measures include technological surveillance and promoting alternative livelihoods.
Polity