Assam: Bokakhat's Lokhoujan river faces severe pollution, threatens Kaziranga’s wildlife

The historic Lokhoujan River in Bokakhat, Assam is facing severe pollution, turning into a major environmental hazard. The river’s toxic water has become a significant threat to the wildlife of Kaziranga National Park.

Recently, the once pristine waters of the river have suddenly turned black and foul-smelling. The Lokhoujan River, which has historical significance, was named after Lokhougarh, one of the three forts built during the reign of the Kachari kings to defend against enemy invasions. These forts—Numaligarh, Rajgarh, and Lokhougarh—were strategically constructed, and the Lokhoujan River still flows past Lokhougarh. Originating from Karbi Anglong, its waters eventually merge into the Moridhanashiri River, which runs through Kaziranga National Park.

The cause of this sudden contamination has been captured on camera, numerous illegal liquor distilleries have sprung up along the banks of the river, particularly in the Bhokotchapori area of Rajabari. These unauthorized liquor factories have flourished due to the alleged neglect and support from corrupt officials of the excise department in Bokakhat subdivision.

These illicit distilleries dump harmful and toxic substances used in liquor production directly into the river, making the water highly poisonous and foul-smelling. As a result, there have already been mass deaths of local fish, frogs, and snakes.

The contaminated water has also raised concerns among local farmers and villagers, as their cattle and goats depend on the river for drinking water. The residents of the area are alarmed about the severe pollution, fearing it may have long-term health and environmental consequences.

For now, the once-historic Lokhoujan River is turning into an ecological disaster zone, calling for urgent intervention before the situation worsens further.