Assam: Illegal coal mafias defy magistrate's orders in Ledo Jharna Basti

Illegal coal mafias continue to flout the orders issued by Margherita's Sub Divisional Magistrate, despite stern warnings and directives. Ledo Jharna Basti in Margherita, has become a hotspot for such illegal activities, causing distress among the local community.

The recent directive issued by Preeti Kumari (IAS), the Sub Divisional Officer cum Magistrate of Margherita, on 18th January, aimed to curb the rampant plying of illegal coal-laden vehicles in Ledo Jharna Basti. However, it appears that the coal mafias have chosen to disregard these orders, continuing their operations unabated.

The situation has become particularly dire for the students and faculty of Sister Nivedita High School in Ledo. The school's principal reported that despite lodging complaints with the Margherita Sub Divisional Magistrate regarding the incessant movement of illegal coal-loaded vehicles in front of the school premises, no respite has been provided. The disturbances caused by these activities have disrupted the learning environment, affecting both students and teachers alike.

The issued order specified restrictions on commercial vehicle movement, prohibiting their operation between 6:00 am to 2:00 pm. However, the reality on the ground paints a starkly different picture, with a reported influx of over a thousand illegal coal-laden 4x4 pickup trucks routinely traversing the area during prohibited hours.

Expressing frustration and concern over the persistent flouting of the magistrate's orders, the headmaster of Sister Nivedita High School, Ledo, called upon the Margherita Sub Divisional Officer cum Magistrate to take immediate and stringent action against those responsible for violating the directives.