Margherita: Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) President Gaurav Gogoi visited the Ledo Tikak Colliery in Margherita on Monday evening to assess the condition of the coal sector and interact with officials, workers, and locals.
The Congress leader was accompanied by members and office bearers of the Margherita Block Congress Committee. Gogoi’s visit drew attention to long-pending concerns surrounding coal mining and related livelihood issues in Upper Assam.
Speaking to the media after the inspection, Gogoi criticised the state government, alleging that despite the Enforcement Directorate (ED) naming certain coal traders in its report, no arrests had been made so far. He accused the Chief Minister of allowing the “coal syndicate” to continue operating in the state.
When questioned about the uncertain future of the North Eastern Coalfields and the non-operational Chaleki coal-based thermal power project, Gogoi said discussions were needed between the local community and Coal India officials to find a viable solution.
Later in the day, he met several residents in the Ledo and Borgolai areas and listened to their concerns regarding employment and industrial development.
With the state Assembly elections approaching in a few months, Gogoi’s visit to Margherita is seen as part of the Congress party’s efforts to strengthen its organisational presence and reconnect with the working population in the coal belt of Upper Assam.