Debabrata Saikia, the Leader of the Opposition in the Assam Legislative Assembly, has strongly asserted that unchecked illegal mining operations are the principal factor behind the recent destructive floods affecting areas along the Dikhow River. Saikia’s significant statement follows his comprehensive visit to the flood-hit regions, where he personally evaluated the ground situation and engaged with distressed residents.
During his on-site assessment, Saikia specifically highlighted that the extensive and illicit extraction of sand and stone from the Dikhow riverbed has profoundly altered the river's natural course and depth. This critical alteration, he argued, substantially diminishes the river's carrying capacity, rendering it highly vulnerable to overflowing its banks even during periods of moderate rainfall. The consequence, he noted, is widespread inundation that causes significant damage to property, agricultural land, and local infrastructure.
The senior Congress leader has subsequently urged the state government to initiate immediate and decisive measures against all individuals and entities involved in these unlawful mining activities. He underscored that without stringent enforcement and proactive steps to curb such operations, the affected region would continue to endure recurring flood episodes, thereby intensifying the suffering of local communities. Saikia called for a robust, comprehensive strategy that integrates strict regulatory enforcement, continuous monitoring, and sustainable resource management practices to safeguard the riverine ecosystem and prevent future environmental calamities.
Reports from local residents corroborate these concerns, with many having voiced anxieties for a considerable period regarding unchecked mining operations, often conducted without proper permits or adherence to environmental safeguards. The Dikhow River, a vital tributary of the Brahmaputra, frequently poses challenges during the annual monsoon season, and the alleged link to illegal mining adds a critical and potentially preventable dimension to Assam's persistent flood problem.
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