Assam Flood Impact Linked to Mining Activities in Nagaland

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that residents in flood-affected areas of upper Assam rely on coal and sand mining in neighboring Nagaland for their livelihoods. This statement follows demands from opposition parties to halt illegal mining activities to prevent recurring floods in the region.

Mining Dependency and Flood Concerns

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma explained that a large number of people in flood-hit areas depend on coal and sand mining in Nagaland for their daily income. He stated that the local residents themselves must decide whether these mining operations should continue or be stopped. Opposition groups, including the Congress, Raijor Dal, and Assam Jatiya Parishad, along with the Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti, have alleged that the recent devastating floods were man-made. They claim the floods are the result of a nexus between mining mafias and political leaders operating along the Assam-Nagaland border.

Government Stance on Border Mining

Regarding the reach of the state government, Sarma clarified that Assam cannot directly stop mining activities occurring within the borders of Nagaland. He noted that while the state government can regulate and close stone crushers within Assam, it lacks jurisdiction over the neighboring state. The Chief Minister stated that the Assam government intends to coordinate with the central government to initiate talks with Nagaland officials. He emphasized that the state government will seek professional advice to determine if illegal mining is the primary cause of the severe flooding.

Current Situation in Flood-Affected Districts

Significant destruction has been reported in the Sivasagar and Charaideo districts, particularly in areas near the Assam-Nagaland border. Official reports indicate that the floods have resulted in at least 87 deaths and affected approximately 1.3 lakh people. Sarma stated that the government would address the issue further once the flood situation in the affected regions improves. He maintained that no illegal mining is currently taking place within the state of Assam.