Assam residents report illegal mining and soil extraction

Residents in parts of Assam have raised alarms regarding alleged unauthorized mining and extraction activities. In the Nagaon-Hojai border area near Doboka, locals report stone quarrying and transportation occurring in the Madatali and Beleuguri areas without verified statutory permissions or environmental clearances. Concerns have been raised regarding the use of dumpers without proper documentation and the potential for road damage due to overloaded heavy vehicles.

In the Nalbari district, allegations have surfaced concerning the large-scale extraction of river soil and sand along the Pagladia, Brahmaputra, and Nona rivers. Residents claim that mining continues at various sites, such as Damalghat and Bijulighat, despite permits having expired. The intensified activity, often involving tractors and excavators during early morning hours, has led to fears regarding the stability of riverbanks and embankments, particularly during the monsoon season. Local communities are calling on forest, mining, and district authorities to verify the legality of these operations and ensure proper government revenue is being collected.