The Gaon Bura of Longplaidisa village in Umrangso, Dima Hasao district, has lodged a strong protest against proposed drilling and mining activities in the region, citing concerns over land encroachment, environmental hazards, and the lack of community consent. In a formal letter addressed to the Director of Geology and Mining of Assam, village headman Duttaram Hojai urged for an immediate halt to any exploratory drilling within the village.
Hojai warned that these activities pose a significant threat to valuable agricultural land, forest ecosystems, wildlife, water bodies, and the overall ecological balance. He pointed out that the tribal residents of Longplaidisa are already grappling with pollution and social repercussions stemming from nearby cement plants and existing mining operations. Allegations of illegal coal extraction have exacerbated the situation, contributing to an influx of outside labor and increased crime rates.
In a separate correspondence with the Principal Secretary of the North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC), Hojai accused a private cement company of encroaching over two kilometers into Longplaidisa’s boundaries. He noted that the company is constructing a road through Nobdilongkukro village and allegedly plans to engage in limestone mining in the Longplaidisa area, all without the villagers’ consent.
Residents have united in their opposition to the encroachment, asserting that any mining or road construction would jeopardize their land, environment, and local wildlife. Hojai emphasized that the people of Umrangso have already endured the negative effects of unchecked industrial activities and feel a strong obligation to protect their land and environment for future generations.
In light of these urgent issues, village authorities have called upon the NCHAC and the state government to reassess the situation and take the necessary steps to safeguard the rights, resources, and traditional way of life of the Longplaidisa community.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/assam/story/assam-dima-hasao-village-headman-flags-encroachment-environmental-threats-opposes-proposed-mining-activities-1304269-2025-11-15?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-11-15 15:15:00
