GUWAHATI: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has launched an investigation into industrial encroachments near Assam's Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, based on complaints regarding potential threats to the sanctuary’s biodiversity.
Pobitora, known for its significant population of over 100 one-horned rhinoceroses, also harbours Indian buffaloes, leopards, pangolins, and a variety of migratory birds.
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The Tribunal acted after receiving a letter from complainants led by Utpal Saikia, who allege that industrialist Dilip Chetry is developing an industrial area between the sanctuary’s two main blocks. According to the complaint, Chetry’s operations include establishing a coal-fired brick kiln, which is likely to harm the sanctuary’s delicate ecosystem.
An initial investigation by the Forest Range Officer in May 2023 reported the presence of a brick kiln within the proposed eco-sensitive zone of Pobitora, raising concerns over air quality and its impact on surrounding agricultural fields.
A subsequent report by the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) indicated that industrial units, including additional brick kilns and tourist accommodations, are operating within the sensitive one-kilometre buffer zone around the sanctuary, designated to protect its wildlife.
Upon review, the NGT formed a Joint Committee with representatives from various environmental agencies, which visited the site on October 18, 2024.
The committee identified multiple brick kilns, including units owned by Bhabani Brick Industry, located within 500 meters of the sanctuary. The committee also found several tourist resorts within the eco-sensitive zone.
Observations reveal that some brick kilns are not adhering to environmental protocols, still employing coal and conventional production technologies despite recent regulations urging the adoption of cleaner methods.
In response, the committee recommended expediting the formal declaration of the sanctuary's boundaries and eco-sensitive zone to enhance regulatory oversight. They also suggested imposing stricter controls on brick kilns and relocating certain operations outside the buffer zone. Additional recommendations include increased air quality monitoring and the potential introduction of electric vehicles within the sanctuary to mitigate pollution.
The committee's findings and recommendations are now under review, and further actions are expected from the Assam State Pollution Control Board and other local authorities.