Assam: Allegations of illegal sand mining in Dhubri; DCF's silence draws criticism

Serious allegations have emerged against Biswajit Brahma, the lease owner of the Soulmari Sand Gravel Minor Mineral Quarry in Dhubri district, accused of illegal sand excavation. Residents claim Brahma's operations have severely damaged their agricultural lands and contributed to the erosion of the Tipkai River's banks.

According to sources, Brahma has been excavating sand from the riverbed at depths of 40 to 60 feet—well beyond the legally permitted 10 feet at sanctioned sites. This excessive digging has reportedly led to substantial loss of farmland, with soil being washed away into the Tipkai River.

Despite multiple complaints lodged by locals and a First Information Report (FIR) filed at the Nayahat police station, the Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) for Dhubri Forest Division has not responded. The inaction has prompted concerns about the effectiveness of regulatory oversight in addressing illegal mining activities.

The illegal mining is also affecting local infrastructure, with overloaded dumpers transporting sand causing significant damage to rural roads in Soulmari. This has made daily commutes difficult, particularly for schoolchildren, and exacerbated dust pollution.