The Central Empowered Committee (CEC) has criticized the Assam government for failing to stop mining activities near the Kaziranga National Park boundary, threatening the rhino habitat.

  • The Supreme Court-appointed CEC has pulled up the Assam government for negligence regarding mining near Kaziranga.
  • Illegal mining in the Parkup Pahar Range and Karbi Anglong hills threatens critical wildlife corridors.
  • The committee demanded immediate notification of nine identified animal corridors and completion of the watershed report.

In a significant legal development, the Central Empowered Committee (CEC), constituted by the Supreme Court, has expressed strong displeasure with the Assam Government for its failure to address mining activities on the southern boundary of the Kaziranga National Park. This comes amid growing controversy surrounding Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's proposal to reduce the park's Eco-Sensitive Zone.

The CEC noted that mining in the Parkup Pahar Range—a vital ecological corridor and declared wildlife sanctuary—is being handled without the seriousness it deserves. This activity directly contravenes a 2019 Supreme Court order that prohibited all mining and new constructions within the catchments of rivers flowing into the park and along its southern boundaries.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the ecological integrity of Kaziranga depends heavily on the natural drainage systems and the connectivity of animal corridors. The hills of Karbi Anglong serve as a crucial refuge for animals during seasonal floods. If mining disrupts these natural water paths or destroys corridors, the survival of the one-horned rhino and other species is at grave risk.

The unmistakable intent of the Supreme Court is to secure wildlife protection and preserve the natural drainage system to safeguard the region's ecological balance.

The issue gained momentum following an RTI application by environmental activist Rohit Choudhury. The RTI revealed that the comprehensive Watershed Drainage Analysis Report, mandated by the CEC, has yet to be submitted. Furthermore, the state has failed to respond to requests made as far back as 2021 regarding the notification of nine critical animal corridors.

The committee also raised alarms over the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC), stating that it has not been presenting a holistic picture to the courts. Mining leases in areas like Borjuri, which fall within the elephant reserve, have sparked questions about how such sanctions were granted despite existing environmental protections.

Did You Know?: The Karbi Anglong hills act as a natural 'high ground' for Kaziranga's wildlife during heavy monsoon floods.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the main cause of the conflict in Kaziranga?
The conflict arises from illegal mining activities and the lack of protection for animal corridors and natural drainage systems near the park.

2. What action has the CEC demanded?
The CEC has demanded the immediate implementation of its recommendations, the notification of animal corridors, and an urgent watershed analysis report.