Assam students’ union demands action over alleged illegal riverbed mining in Dima Hasao

The All Dimasa Students’ Union (ADSU), Dima Hasao district committee, has submitted a representation to the Chief Conservator of Forests, Haflong, seeking action against what it alleged were illegal and unregulated riverbed mining activities across the district.

In its complaint, ADSU alleged that excessive extraction of sand, gravel, stone and boulders from rivers and streams, including the Diyung, Mahur, Langting and Jatinga, was causing ecological damage.

The students’ union alleged that heavy machinery, including JCBs and excavators, was being used inside active river channels, affecting riverbanks, aquatic habitats and the natural flow of water. It also raised concerns over groundwater depletion and the drying up of gravity-fed drinking water sources in rural areas.

According to ADSU, communities dependent on the river systems for traditional fishing, agriculture and household water could face socioeconomic difficulties if such extraction continues unchecked.

The organisation cited the Assam Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 2013, the Supreme Court’s directions in the Deepak Kumar versus State of Haryana case and directions issued by the National Green Tribunal concerning riverbed mining and environmental clearances.

ADSU has demanded an immediate halt to allegedly illegal mining activities and cease-and-desist action against extraction sites that do not comply with regulations. It has also sought action against unauthorised heavy machinery operating inside river channels.

The students’ union called for an urgent joint ground inspection and audit involving the Forest Department, Dima Hasao Autonomous Council (DHAC), district administration, ecological experts and local representatives.

It also sought strict enforcement against operators allegedly carrying out mining without approved mining plans, valid leases or the required environmental clearances.

ADSU proposed the scientific demarcation of critical river bends, bridge buffers, erosion-prone areas and ecologically sensitive stretches as protected non-mining zones.

The students’ union has given the authorities 15 days from the receipt of its representation to initiate visible field-level action. It said that if no action is taken within the stipulated period, it may launch a democratic agitation and approach the Eastern Zone Bench of the National Green Tribunal seeking judicial intervention.