Illegal Earth Cutting Threatens Wetland Linked to Deepor Beel

Illegal earth cutting from a wetland connected to Deepor Beel is continuing in the Satmile area of Guwahati despite prohibitory orders issued by the district administration, restrictions from the Gauhati High Court and regulations enforced by the Assam Forest Department. Local residents have raised concerns over large-scale soil excavation at the Kalshila wetland, warning that the activity could damage the fragile ecosystem connected to the internationally recognised Deepor Beel wetland. Excavation reported near Kalshila wetland Residents of Satmile have alleged that illegal excavation has been taking place at the Kalshila wetland, located near the training school of the Assam Police Radio Organisation and Assam Engineering College. The area falls under the jurisdiction of the Jalukbari police outpost. Locals claim that soil has been removed from the wetland for more than a month despite legal restrictions aimed at protecting the sensitive ecosystem. Night-time operations using heavy machinery According to residents, the excavation activities are mainly carried out at night, beginning around 8 pm. JCB machines are reportedly used to cut soil from the wetland, after which dumpers transport the excavated earth to various locations for commercial purposes. Locals alleged that the operation is organised by a group of middlemen who continue the activity despite existing prohibitory orders and environmental regulations. Environmental risks to Deepor Beel ecosystem The Kalshila wetland forms part of the ecological network connected to Deepor Beel, a Ramsar-listed wetland and an important biodiversity hotspot in Assam. Residents stated that repeated excavation during the dry season since 2021 has already damaged parts of the wetland. Environmental concerns include threats to aquatic habitats, disturbance to wildlife and increased vulnerability of surrounding land to erosion and ecological degradation. Important Facts for Exams Deepor Beel in Assam is a Ramsar Site recognised for its ecological importance. Wetlands serve as important habitats for migratory birds and aquatic biodiversity. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) monitors environmental protection and ecological violations in India. Illegal earth cutting can lead to habitat loss, soil erosion and increased flood risk. Residents demand urgent administrative action Local citizens have urged the Kamrup (Metro) district administration, city police and forest authorities to investigate the matter and take strict legal action against those responsible for the illegal excavation. Residents warned that continued digging could threaten nearby myadi patta land owned by indigenous communities and increase the risk of land erosion or landslides during the monsoon season. They have called for immediate intervention to protect the wetland and prevent further environmental damage.