Illegal sand mining along the Brahmaputra river in the Palasbari area of Kamrup district has raised serious environmental and safety concerns, with local residents alleging large-scale unregulated extraction in recent weeks.
According to locals, sand is being illegally mined from the riverbed near the No. 5 spur in the Palasbari region using heavy machinery, including excavators and dump trucks. The activity, they claim, is being carried out in violation of established environmental norms and mining regulations, causing visible damage to the river’s natural structure.
Residents fear that the unscientific removal of sand has led to the formation of deep pits in the riverbed, altering the river’s flow and increasing the risk of erosion. They warned that such activities could weaken embankments and nearby infrastructure, posing a serious threat during the monsoon season. Environmental degradation and loss of aquatic habitat have also emerged as major concerns.
Locals have expressed frustration over what they describe as a lack of effective action by enforcement agencies, despite repeated complaints. Allegations of inaction by forest and administrative officials have further intensified public anger, with villagers demanding immediate intervention to stop the illegal operations.
Community members and farmers have urged the district administration and the forest department to conduct a thorough investigation and take strict action against those involved in the illegal mining. They warned that continued neglect could result in long-term ecological damage and heightened flood risks in the area.
Environmental experts have repeatedly cautioned that unchecked sand mining along major rivers like the Brahmaputra can destabilise riverbanks, disrupt ecosystems and endanger human settlements. As concerns grow in Palasbari, residents are calling for swift and decisive government action to protect the river and surrounding communities.
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