Some major rivers in the area have been found to be unfit for human use, said Ramesh in the Rajya Sabha.
Jaintia Hills in particular is facing an acute drinking water crisis, he said.
He said the state government has reported taking up steps to curb mining in the area and its effect on water pollution.
In order to address the issue of mining in Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya and its effect on water pollution, the state has framed a State Mineral Policy.
The government has also entered into special arrangements with Village Durbars to protect the source in order to ensure longevity of drinking water sources.
Awareness programmes have been conducted to educate mine owners/miners and mine dependent families on ill effects of unscientific mining and storage of coal.