Allegations of illegal stone quarrying surface along Assam–Nagaland border

Allegations of illegal stone quarrying have emerged from the Bihubar–Augurijan tea estate area in Nazira subdivision of Assam, located along the disputed border with Nagaland, raising concerns over environmental damage and lack of enforcement.

Local sources alleged that a group of individuals has been carrying out unauthorised stone extraction in the area, reportedly clearing sections of tea plantations to facilitate quarrying activities. The developments have triggered apprehensions about ecological degradation and loss of plantation cover.

The issue is further complicated by the long-standing boundary dispute between Assam and Nagaland. According to residents, earlier attempts by the Assam administration to establish a border outpost in the area were met with resistance from suspected Naga miscreants, who claimed the land as part of Nagaland. The situation, they said, has enabled illegal operators to continue activities with little interference.

Despite repeated reports highlighting the alleged activities, no visible action has been taken so far by the Forest Department or other authorities, locals claimed.

Officials have not issued any formal statement on the matter. Residents have called for immediate intervention to curb illegal quarrying and ensure protection of the region’s environmental and economic resources.