What happened: riverbed mining and encroachment allegations in the Assam flood-affected belt
Assam flood-related debates included allegations of riverbed mining and encroachment near the Dikhow river system. The allegations named areas around Sivasagar/Bihubar and adjoining border zones, with community groups and legislators asserting mining activity in and around fragile riverbeds.
Officials were reported to have denied the allegations, but the allegation narrative continued to centre on mining near the Dikhow river system and potential harms to river stability during flood conditions.
Court-triggered investigation and reported findings (January–March 2019)
A court-related directive preceded government field action. Government teams investigated over a reported period from January to March 2019. Reported investigative outcomes included documentation of stone quarries and stone crushers, plus seizures of minor minerals.
The dispute narrative described the area as a mining and supply hub, including a claim that construction materials were often transported from outside the state (described as from Nagaland).
Related current affairs
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- RHINO HABITAT: SC panel slams Assam govt. for inaction on mining
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- Centre should reconsider Mines Bill, Sateesh S. Bessen urges Modi
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