Second-day operation along Assam–Mizoram border clears encroachments affecting over 500 families
Hailakandi: An extensive anti-encroachment drive to reclaim forest land along the Assam–Mizoram inter-state boundary continued for the second consecutive day in Hailakandi district on Tuesday, with authorities reporting a largely peaceful operation.
The eviction is being carried out in the Damcherra forest village under the Gharmora Inner Line Reserve Forest area near the border. According to forest officials, nearly 2,800 bighas, approximately 924 acres of encroached land has been identified for clearance, impacting over 500 families. Most settlers vacated the area in advance, resulting in minimal resistance.
Evictions were conducted in sectors 5, 6 and 7 on the first day, while operations continued in sectors 1, 2, 3 and 4 on Tuesday. Several bulldozers and excavators were deployed to demolish illegal structures and clear large stretches of areca nut plantations.
Senior civil and police officials remained present on the ground, and adequate security arrangements were made to ensure the drive proceeded smoothly. Authorities expect the operation to conclude by Tuesday or Wednesday.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma underscored the government’s firm stance on reclaiming forest land. Taking to social media, he wrote, “912 acres- an area bigger than the campus of IIT Guwahati has been freed in Hailakandi. As our bulldozers rolled in since yesterday, we reaffirmed our commitment to reclaim every INCH of our land from encroachers. It’s a question of our survival and we shall emerge victorious.”
The drive is part of the state government’s broader effort to protect reserve forests, restore greenery, and prevent further encroachments in ecologically sensitive border areas.
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