Assam: Bajali’s legal miners demand action against unlicensed clay extraction

Bajali: Rampant illegal extraction of ordinary clay in Assam's Bajali district has raised concerns among DSR-approved mining groups, who say unregulated activity is harming the environment and causing financial difficulties for legal traders.

Committee members clarified that while legal traders are allowed to collect ordinary clay from existing stock after paying the required government royalty, no individual or group is permitted to cut or excavate clay using machines such as JCBs without proper documents and permissions.

They allege that some operators are not following these rules.

Reports indicate that unlicensed extraction is occurring in areas such as Bhakuamari and Kahara Pathar, particularly along the Pahumara River.

Authorities say that such activities may impact the local ecosystem and the stability of riverbanks.

Illegal miners have been reportedly selling ordinary clay at lower prices, which could create competition challenges for lawful traders who pay taxes, follow procedures, and are awaiting the mandatory Environment Clearance Certificates (ECC).

Once the ECC is granted, legal miners are expected to supply ordinary clay to government projects, including Bhattadev University, Titka Stadium, the Patacharkuchi Fire Station, and the Assam Mala Haripur–Sarthebari Road Project.

Officials note that ongoing unregulated extraction may disrupt the planned supply chain and create uncertainty for these projects.

Committee members emphasized that the issue affects both the environment and the livelihoods of licensed traders. One member said, “We are still waiting for our ECC, but some unlicensed groups are already cutting clay without permission. They don’t have proper documents and are not paying any government royalties. How did the beat officer allow them to cut?”

The DSR-approved mining committee has urged the district administration to take appropriate action to address illegal mining and ensure fair trade practices in the region.