Assam: Dima Hasao locals threaten to halt mining operations
Haflong: Residents of mining-affected areas of Garampani constituency in Dima Hasao, Assam have issued an ultimatum to authorities, demanding the cancellation of proposed new mining projects in Umrongso.
The ultimatum, set for July 10th, comes after a memorandum outlining their grievances was submitted to various government bodies, including the Prime Minister's Office, Assam Chief Minister's Office, National Green Tribunal (NGT), and Assam Mining Development Corporation (AMDC).
The groups involved - Karbi Student Association, Dima Hasao Committee, Mining Area Affected People Association (MAAPA), and Kopili Area Mining Area People Association (KAMAPA) - are seeking the following:
- Immediate cancellation of the proposed 1270-hectare new mining project by the Assam Directorate of Geology and Mining in Boro Lokhindong and New Umrongso villages.
- Cancellation of the Garampani Coal Mine Project spanning 109 hectares in the Boro Lokhindong area.
- Closure of the Mahaveer Cement Pvt. Ltd. factory encompassing 2000 bighas in Nobodi Longkukro and Chotolarpheng villages.
The residents claim that Umrongso, despite being an industrial hub generating significant revenue for the Dima Hasao district, has borne the brunt of environmental damage from existing projects.
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These include Kopili Hydro Electric Project (established 1976), Assam Coal Quarry (1985), Vinay Cement Ltd. (now Dalmia Cement Ltd., 1991), NECEM Ltd. (1989), Umrongso Cement Limited (UCL, 1999), and Calcom (2007).
Furthermore, the construction of the Kopili Hydro Electric Project displaced 18 villages in 1976, offering meagre compensation for land acquisition. Some villages were reconstructed, but subsequent projects like UCL and Calcom forced residents to relocate yet again.
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MAAPA president Linson Ronghang expressed disappointment at the lack of response to their previous memorandum submitted on May 27th. "If we don't get any response from the government, we have no choice but to stop all operational work of mining-related industries in Umrongso," he warned.
Ronghang also called for the protection of tribal land rights in Umrongso, highlighting the exploitation and displacement faced by local communities in the name of development and industrialization.
He emphasized the need for skill development programs within these industries to ensure job opportunities for local residents.