Rampant Illegal Sand Mining in Kopili River Raises Environmental Concerns

Illegal sand mining activities in the Kopili River near Palasbari persist despite government efforts to curb such practices. Local residents report ongoing extraction both day and night, raising serious environmental concerns. The situation has prompted Forest Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah to call for stringent action against these illegal operations. As the community fears for the river's ecology and surrounding environment, attention now turns to the government's response to this pressing issue.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 3, 2026, 10:34 IST

Illegal Sand Mining Persists in Kopili River

PALASBARI, Aug 3: Despite ongoing efforts by the State government to combat unauthorized extraction of minor minerals, illegal sand mining from the Kopili River near the Rani range forest office continues unabated.

Local reports indicate that sand is being extracted from the riverbed both day and night, alarmingly close to the Rani Range Forest Office. The illegal sand is reportedly being transported using DI vans and other vehicles to various locations.

Residents have voiced their concerns, claiming that these illegal activities have persisted for an extended period without any significant action from the authorities. They allege that the operators are able to continue their operations despite numerous government orders aimed at halting illegal mining throughout the State.

It has been suggested that the illegal extraction is facilitated by 'managing' local forest officials through monthly payments.

The ongoing sand extraction from the Kopili River has raised alarms among local inhabitants and environmentalists, who worry that unchecked mining could severely impact the river's ecosystem, increase bank erosion, and endanger the surrounding environment.

Forest Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah has instructed relevant authorities to implement strict measures against illegal mining and the transportation of sand and other minor minerals across Assam. The focus now shifts to the actions the department will take to address the alleged illegal sand mining in the Kopili River.