Assam: Villagers alarmed by government’s mining plans in Dima Hasao

OUR Correspondent

Haflong: The residents of Boro Lokhindong have expressed shock and disbelief as the government moves forward with plans for mining on nine thousand bighas of village land near Umrangso in Dima Hasao. This decision comes without consulting or securing the consent of the villagers, despite their repeated appeals for dialogue.

While it is often said that the government is “by the people, of the people, and for the people,” this principle appears to have been overlooked in favour of mining interests, ignoring the voices of the local community. The villagers, many of whom were displaced earlier due to the establishment of NEEPCO, now face yet another threat of displacement. This development risks jeopardizing their livelihoods, agriculture, and the environmental balance in the region.

Linson Ronghang and Jonto Ronghang, who have been closely monitoring the government’s actions, criticized the lack of consideration for the villagers. They emphasized that while the community is not against development, such progress should not come at the expense of the environment or the future of the people. They warned that continued disregard for the villagers’ concerns could erode public trust in the government.

The villagers cited the example of environmental devastation caused by mining activities of Dalmiya Cement Company, which polluted the Umrang Nulla and its prime source, the Kopili River. The polluted river is now unable to sustain aquatic life, highlighting the severe environmental consequences of unchecked mining activities. They appealed to environmentalists across the nation and states to address the looming environmental crisis. The villagers stressed that this issue not only threatens Umrangso but has far-reaching implications for the state and the country as a whole.

Also Read: Assam: Programme on IEC/BCC campaign held in Morigaon Civil hospital

Also Watch: