Illegal sand mining alleged near Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam’s Nagaon

Allegations of illegal sand mining using heavy machinery have emerged from Kathalguri village under Juria police station in Assam’s Nagaon district, near the Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary.

According to local residents, sand has allegedly been excavated using machines in the area for the past year. The activity is reportedly being carried out day and night, with sand allegedly being extracted from depths of around 50 to 60 feet and sold.

Residents have alleged that Shafiqul Islam, son of Akbar Ali of Kathalguri, is involved in the sand mining.

Local residents and environmentalists have expressed concern that the alleged activity could pose a threat to agricultural land, roads and the biodiversity of the nearby Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary.

An FIR has been lodged against Shafiqul Islam at Juria Police Station in connection with the alleged sand mining.

Residents have urged the district administration and Forest Department to launch an immediate investigation and take strict legal action if the allegations are found to be true.