Assam: Dhubri administration halts illegal construction in Mora Gadadhar River Basin

Local authorities in Dhubri on January 29 halted alleged unauthorised construction work being carried out in violation of a standing Gauhati High Court order along the Dhubri–Kachugaon road, within the ecologically sensitive Mora Gadadhar river basin near Dahar Jhagra Beel.

The enforcement drive was led by Additional Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) Kartik Kalita, accompanied by Dhubri Revenue Circle Officer Ranjumani Dutta and an enforcement team. Officials stopped ongoing construction and earth-filling activities at the site, which was identified as land belonging to Sanjoy Kumar More.

The plot, measuring 1 bigha, 2 katha and 10 lessa under Dag No. 5 of Folimari Part-I, has been at the centre of an ongoing legal and environmental dispute. According to the district administration, the land falls within the Mora Gadadhar river basin, an area under scrutiny due to concerns over encroachment and ecological damage.

Officials said that in August 2024, the Dhubri Circle Officer had confirmed that a case relating to encroachment of the Mora Gadadhar river basin is pending before the Gauhati High Court. The alleged resumption of construction work despite the matter being sub judice is being viewed as a violation of the court’s directions and an attempt to undermine the judicial process.

During the enforcement drive, revenue officials reiterated the administration’s commitment to protecting natural water bodies and wetlands. They said any construction undertaken without legal clearance or in contravention of court orders would invite strict action, as such activities pose a direct threat to Dahar Jhagra Beel, a crucial wetland ecosystem connected to the Gadadhar River.

The district administration said the site will remain under continuous surveillance to prevent any further unauthorised activity. It also made it clear that no commercial or residential development will be allowed in the disputed area until the Gauhati High Court delivers its final verdict on the matter.