GUWAHATI: Uncontrolled and illicit coal mining activities in the Ledo-Margherita region of Assam's Tinsukia district have dealt a severe blow to the once-pristine Patkai hills, leading to its irreversible degradation.
This area, located approximately 571 kilometres from the state capital Guwahati, was once renowned for its abundant coal deposits nestled in the foothills of Patkai.
Before the onslaught of mining and deforestation, the Patkai hills were home to several indigenous communities, including the Singpo, Sema Nagas, Tangsa, Tai-Phake, Syam, Aitom, Nocte, and others.
However, the unscrupulous mining operations compelled these communities to relocate to the Tirap area of Arunachal Pradesh in search of a new home.
As per reports, coal extraction in Ledo-Margherita occurs extensively along the foothills of the Namdang hills, utilizing a wide range of techniques. Local residents from neighbouring villages, along with migrant daily labourers, employ rudimentary tools to extract coal, which is then collected in gunny bags and deposited at designated locations.
This rampant illegal mining has led to an alarming environmental crisis in the region. The Patkai hills, once renowned for their natural splendour, now bear the scars of relentless exploitation. The lush forests that once covered the hillsides have been decimated, leaving behind barren wastelands and severely impacting the delicate ecosystem.
Apart from the irreversible loss of biodiversity, the continuous mining activities have triggered landslides and soil erosion, exacerbating the ecological catastrophe.
Moreover, unregulated mining practices pose a significant threat to the safety and well-being of the miners, who toil under perilous conditions without proper protective measures.
Reports state that the authorities have been alerted to the dire situation, and conservationists and environmental organizations have called for immediate action to halt the illegal mining operations and restore the ecological balance in the Patkai hills.
(Inputs from agencies)