Protests erupt against alleged illegal sand mining along Assam-Meghalaya border

Residents and various civil society organizations from Assam and Meghalaya gathered today to protest against alleged illegal sand mining operations that have threatened their livelihoods and the ecological balance of the region. The meeting, led by the Mothers' Union of Assam and Meghalaya, was held at the Nokmakundi village playground and culminated in a rally aimed at drawing attention to the government's inaction regarding the complaints raised by the community.

Participants included representatives from prominent organizations such as the Garo Students Union (GSU) Assam State Zone, Garo Women Council (GWC), All Bodo Students Union (ABSU), and the Garo Gaonburha Association. ABSU advisor Dhiraj Hazowary opened the meeting by stressing the urgency of the situation, stating, "United we stand, divided we fall," and calling for unity among tribal communities against the ongoing mining activities in the Dudhnoi (Manda) River.

Hazowary expressed deep concerns about the long-term effects of the illegal mining, warning, “In the coming days, there won’t be sand for any of us to use. This empty river will affect aquatic life, paddy fields, and will lead to severe river erosion. Hundreds of overloaded trucks, without proper documentation, are illegally transporting sand to Guwahati City every day, damaging the roads in the process."

He criticized the forest department, alleging that rather than curbing the illegal activities, officials were more interested in collecting fees from the trucks, contributing to a growing perception of corruption. "What does this show about what is happening?" he asked, highlighting the ineffectiveness of local forest offices established in the area.

Folding R Marak, President of GSU Assam State Zone, echoed these sentiments, asserting that a united public protest could compel the government to take action. He referenced past successful protests, notably against mining in the Boko River, which led to the cessation of similar activities in that area.

The GWC President joined the call for unity, emphasizing the dire consequences of sand mining, particularly for the villages of Nokmakundi and Kalikapara, which are experiencing erosion and a lack of water for cultivation, even during the rainy season when rivers typically swell.

Mothers' Union President Sona Marak articulated the collective frustration over the authorities' inability to address the issue adequately. She recalled that a joint public complaint was initially lodged regarding illegal sand mining on March 14, 2023, which had led to temporary action against the offenders. However, Marak noted that illegal mining resumed as recently as October 2024, exacerbating environmental degradation, soil erosion, and water pollution in the area.

The protestors have vowed to continue their demonstrations until concrete actions are taken to halt the illegal mining activities, which they believe are not only damaging their environment but also threatening their future.