India, Feb. 5 -- The Justice BP Katakey Committee has instructed authorities in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills to tighten action against illegal coal mining by identifying vulnerable zones and increasing field surveillance.

Unlawful coal extraction remains widespread in East Jaintia Hills, the most affected district, the committee said in its latest interim report to the Meghalaya High Court.

It asked the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police to pinpoint villages where illegal mining continues and ensure regular police presence in these areas.

The panel also called for stricter monitoring of roads and entry points to stop the transport of illegally sourced coal.

The committee made district officials directly answerable for ...