Residents flag unauthorised stone extraction in Nazira’s tea estate belt, cite lack of enforcement amid border dispute
Nazira: Fresh concerns have emerged from the Bihubar–Augurijan tea estate belt in Nazira subdivision of Assam, where locals have alleged ongoing illegal stone quarrying near the disputed boundary with Nagaland. Residents claim that sections of tea plantations are being cleared to enable unauthorised extraction, raising alarms over environmental damage and loss of green cover.
According to local accounts, a group of individuals has been operating in the area without formal approval. “Portions of the plantation are being removed to facilitate quarrying. This is causing serious ecological harm,” a resident alleged, highlighting the impact on both the environment and the local economy.
The situation is further complicated by the long-standing inter-state boundary dispute. Locals recalled that earlier attempts by the Assam administration to set up a border outpost were reportedly resisted by suspected Naga miscreants, who claimed the land as part of Nagaland. As a result, they argue, enforcement has remained weak, allowing such activities to continue unchecked.
Despite repeated complaints and reports, residents say authorities, including the Forest Department, have not taken visible action so far. This perceived inaction has intensified concerns about regulatory gaps in sensitive border areas.
Consequently, locals have urged the government to intervene immediately, stressing the need to halt illegal quarrying and safeguard both ecological balance and plantation livelihoods. Officials, however, are yet to issue a formal response on the matter.
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