Illegal soil trade in Katigorah, Cachar: Land mafia and forest department accused of destruction

In Katigorah, a serene region nestled within Cachar, an alarming environmental crisis unfolds as the clandestine trade of soil by the notorious land mafia wreaks havoc, allegedly with the tacit support of the forest department.

Blatantly operating in the vicinity of forest department offices, these unscrupulous elements are pillaging the land, causing irreparable harm to the delicate ecosystem and endangering numerous species of wildlife. Locals voice their concerns, pointing fingers at the forest department for their complicity in this destructive enterprise.

The once-lush green hills of Katigorah, renowned for their natural beauty, have become the prime targets of the land mafia's insatiable greed. Areas like Katirail, Karaikandi, Sonagiri, Baikunthapur, Craig Park, Jalalpur, Rajswapur, and Babur Bazar, all falling under the Kalain Forest Range, bear witness to the wanton destruction perpetrated by these criminals. Mountains are ruthlessly carved out, with soil transported in trucks via JCB machinery, leaving behind a trail of devastation.

Despite being entrusted with the conservation of these natural resources, the Kalain Forest Department remains eerily silent, turning a blind eye to the rampant exploitation under their watch. Disturbing allegations emerge, suggesting that certain forest department officials, including range officers and workers, may be complicit in facilitating this illegal trade.

Meanwhile, the consequences of this unchecked destruction are dire, with various species of wildlife, including monkeys, forced to flee their habitats in search of safety as their lives hang in the balance. The urgency of the situation demands immediate action to curb this illicit activity and protect the biodiversity of Katigorah before it's too late.