Eviction Drive in Sonitpur: Protecting Wildlife Sanctuaries

A significant eviction drive has been initiated in Assam's Sonitpur district, targeting encroachments on the Compensatory Afforestation land under the Burhachapori Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS). This action is part of the state government's ongoing efforts to safeguard government and forest lands from illegal occupation.

The Scale of the Operation

The operation, coordinated by the Sonitpur district administration and the district forest department, involves a massive deployment of personnel and machinery. Approximately 6,200 bighas of land, spread across three revenue circles, have been identified for Compensatory Afforestation linked to the Burhachapori WLS. However, this land has been illegally occupied in the form of dwellings and agricultural activities.

Procedures Followed

A joint verification was conducted earlier by officials from the revenue circles and the forest department, following which notices were served to the encroachers. Despite being given nearly a month to comply with the notices, most occupants failed to vacate the land. The eviction drive was carried out following the prescribed protocol and relevant Acts to free the land from illegal occupation.

Implications for the Region and Beyond

The Burhachapori WLS, located on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra, plays a strategically important ecological role in Assam's protected area network. It is surrounded by prominent wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, underlining its significance in the region's biodiversity conservation efforts.

Historical Context

This eviction drive follows a major operation conducted in February 2023, where around 1,900 hectares of land were cleared of illegal encroachment in the Char-Chapori area of the Burhachapori Wildlife Sanctuary.

Reflections and Future Prospects

The successful execution of the eviction drive in Sonitpur underscores the commitment of the Assam government to safeguard its wildlife sanctuaries and protect them from illegal encroachment. As the drive continues, it is crucial to ensure that the evicted land is used for its intended purpose, contributing to the conservation of the Burhachapori WLS and the broader ecological landscape of Assam.