Akhil Gogoi Calls for Action Against Illegal Coal Transport in Upper Assam
Concerns Over Illegal Coal Transportation
A file image of Akhil Gogoi
Guwahati, Nov 10: Akhil Gogoi, the president of Raijor Dal and a member of the Legislative Assembly, has reached out to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma regarding what he describes as an “illegal coal transportation syndicate” operating in Upper Assam. This syndicate reportedly involves 42 trucks loaded with coal traveling from Meghalaya to Nagaland.
In his letter to the Chief Minister, Gogoi expressed his concerns about the suspicious activities of numerous heavy trucks along the National Highway between Jhanji and Hanhchara in Jorhat district. He highlighted that many families in Upper Assam are still recovering from the severe floods that impacted areas like Nazira, Sivasagar, Sonari, Mahmora, Demow, and Mariani Legislative Assembly Constituencies (LACs). The resurgence of illegal mining and coal transportation is particularly troubling during this time.
Gogoi has previously raised alarms about illegal coal mining in Nagaland, as well as unauthorized extraction of stone and sand, which he believes significantly contributed to the flooding crisis earlier this year. He emphasized the environmental damage caused by these activities, including the formation of mining pits and disruption of natural drainage systems, calling for a comprehensive and independent investigation.
He has consistently advocated for a CBI inquiry to uncover the causes of the disaster and hold accountable those responsible. Gogoi has also alleged that certain political figures and influential individuals may be involved in illegal coal mining and unauthorized extraction along the Dikhow river, urging for an unbiased investigation free from political influence.
Recently, Gogoi observed around 42 large trucks parked along the National Highway. After speaking with local witnesses, he learned that these trucks were transporting coal from Meghalaya and were headed towards the Tuli railway station in Nagaland. When he contacted the local MLA of Nazira, Mayur Borgohain, he was informed that these trucks were not authorized to pass through his constituency, raising questions about their legality.
Gogoi pointed out that if the coal being transported is legal, then why are the trucks parked at various locations instead of proceeding to their destinations? He questioned the inaction of police and relevant authorities regarding these vehicles.
Furthermore, he mentioned that over 200 suspected illegal coal-laden trucks are reportedly stranded near the Assam-West Bengal border due to disputes over transportation arrangements. An alternative route through Jorabat, Jagiroad, Nagaon Kaziranga, and Dergaon is being planned to transport the coal towards Bihar via Tuli railway station in Nagaland or Lakwa railway station in Assam. This situation raises serious concerns about the operations of police, transport, mining, and railway authorities.
After the information about the trucks became public, some were relocated to different areas. Gogoi stressed that this shifting of trucks, rather than their movement towards their intended destinations, necessitates an immediate investigation.
He has called for the seizure of the 42 suspected illegal coal-laden trucks and urged the Chief Minister to instruct the Assam Police and district administrations to track down every truck involved in this transportation network and prevent their removal until a thorough investigation is conducted. Additionally, he has requested an inquiry into the presence of over 200 suspected coal-laden trucks near the Assam-West Bengal border to ascertain their ownership, origin, intended destination, and legal status, as well as an independent investigation into the alleged illegal coal mining in Nagaland and its environmental impact on Upper Assam.