Community unity fights environmental degradation in Assam and Meghalaya.

The Unlikely Alliance

In a rare display of unity, villagers from Assam and Meghalaya have joined forces to combat the scourge of illegal sand mining in their region. This unlikely alliance is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in addressing environmental concerns.

The Problem of Illegal Sand Mining

The region has long been plagued by disputes over the border between Assam and Meghalaya. However, the villagers have put aside their differences to tackle a common enemy – the illegal sand mining that has been ravaging their lands.

“We are facing a lot of problems in the sand mining industry, including lack of regulation and lack of enforcement.”

The Impact of Excessive Sand Mining on the Local Ecosystem

The local ecosystem of the area has been severely impacted by the excessive sand mining activities. The rivers that flow through the region have been affected, and the riverbanks are eroding at an alarming rate.

Villages in Goalpara District Face Decades of Neglect Over Infrastructure and Basic Amenities.

The Joint Complaint

The people of Nokmakundi, Kalikapara, and other villages under Dudunoi Revenue Circle in Assam’s Goalpara district submitted a joint public complaint to the authorities concerned in March 2023. This complaint was filed against the Dudunoi Revenue Circle Officer (DRCO) and the Circle Officer (CO) of Dudunoi Revenue Circle, alleging that they had failed to provide adequate infrastructure and basic amenities to the villages. Key issues raised in the complaint:

• Lack of proper roads and bridges
• Insufficient supply of clean water and electricity
• Poor sanitation and waste management
• Limited access to healthcare and education

The Background

The villages of Nokmakundi, Kalikapara, and others under Dudunoi Revenue Circle have been facing numerous challenges for years. The lack of proper infrastructure and basic amenities has made life difficult for the residents. The villages are located in a remote area, and the distance from the nearest town is quite long, making it difficult for people to access basic services. Historical context:

• The villages have been facing infrastructure challenges since the 1970s
• The government has been aware of the issues but has failed to address them
• The residents have been trying to bring attention to the issues through various means, including protests and petitions

The Response

The authorities concerned have responded to the joint public complaint by promising to take necessary steps to address the issues.

The Impact of Sand Mining on River Dolphin Habitat

The loss of habitat due to sand mining has a devastating impact on the river dolphin population. The dolphins rely on the sand and gravel deposits to build their nests and give birth to their young. Without these deposits, the dolphins are left without a safe place to live and reproduce. The sand mining activities have led to the destruction of the dolphins’ habitat, causing them to lose their homes and their way of life. The dolphins are also forced to swim longer distances to find food and shelter, which can be exhausting and lead to malnutrition. The loss of habitat also affects the dolphins’ social structure, as they are forced to live in smaller groups, leading to increased competition for resources.

The Role of the Forest Department

The Forest Department has taken steps to regulate sand mining in the region, but its efforts have been largely ineffective. The department has been able to check illegal mining to some extent, but the scale of the problem is too large for it to be addressed effectively. The Forest Department has implemented measures to monitor and regulate sand mining, including the use of drones and satellite imaging. However, the department’s efforts are often hindered by corruption and lack of resources. The department’s inability to effectively regulate sand mining has led to a lack of trust among local communities, who feel that the department is not doing enough to protect their interests.

The Need for Sustainable Sand Mining Practices

To address the issue of sand mining and its impact on the river dolphin population, it is essential to adopt sustainable sand mining practices.

The river’s water quality has deteriorated significantly due to the removal of sand and gravel, which are essential for maintaining the river’s ecosystem.

The Devastating Effects of Illegal Sand Mining on the Kulsi River

Environmental Impact

The Kulsi River, a vital water source for the surrounding region, has been severely affected by the rampant illegal sand mining activities. The removal of sand and gravel from the riverbed has led to a significant decline in water quality, posing a threat to the aquatic life and the entire ecosystem. The river’s water quality has deteriorated due to the increased levels of suspended solids, turbidity, and sedimentation. The removal of sand and gravel has disrupted the natural sedimentation process, leading to the formation of sandbars and the degradation of riverbanks. The loss of sand and gravel has also affected the river’s ability to maintain its natural flow, leading to changes in the river’s morphology.

Economic Impact

The illegal sand mining activities have also had a significant impact on the local economy. The removal of sand and gravel has led to the loss of livelihoods for many people who depend on the river for their income. The loss of sand and gravel has affected the fishing industry, as the removal of sand and gravel has reduced the availability of fish and other aquatic resources.