Assam: Sun Bear sighting in Margherita highlights impact of illegal mining and deforestation

A Sun Bear has been spotted at the illegal coal mining of the Margherita subdivision on April 22.

A Sun Bear, Helarctos malayanus, an endangered species, has been sighted at the Margherita subdivision, causing concern among local residents of Makumpani and Margherita Tea Estate. 

This unusual occurrence is attributed to the rampant illegal coal mining and deforestation in the area. 

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Debojit Moran, General Secretary of Green Bud Society, an NGO in Digboi, expressed concern that many wild animals, including leopards, elephants, tigers, monkeys, pythons, and now the Sun Bear, are being forced out of their natural habitats in search of food. 

He urged the Assam Chief Minister, the Assam Forest Minister, the Digboi Divisional Forest Officer, and all forest department officials to address this critical issue.