Kuolachalie Seyie
Hidden Forests, IG Stadium, Kohima
The recent statement by the Chief Minister of Assam alleging that flood-hit people in Assam are suffering because of coal sand mining activities in Nagaland is, in my view, unsupported by credible evidence and lacks factual basis. Such a serious allegation should be backed by scientific studies, hydrological data, and environmental assessments before making public assertions.
While sympathizing with the flood affected victims, it is pertinent to mention that floods in Assam have been a recurring phenomenon. For centuries, the Brahmaputra and its tributaries have overflowed during monsoon because of heavy rainfall, erosion, silt deposition, changing river channels, and the natural characteristics of one of the world's largest river systems. In recent years, climate change and increasingly intense rainfall have added to these challenges. Experts have consistently recognized that flooding in the Brahmaputra basin results from a combination of many natural and human factors spread across a vast geographical area.
Compared to other regions of India, Nagaland has limited mining, so blaming it for the ‘devastating floods’ in Upper Assam, without a clear proof, is unreasonable. Without scientific investigation, identification of locations, the extent of damage, tangible impact on river systems, and finding the connection, if any, between those activities and the flooding occurring downstream, shooting arrows in the dark will not bring any positive outcome.
If illegal mining or environmental violations exist anywhere, they should be investigated impartially and appropriate legal action should be taken. At the same time, allegations that affect the reputation of a neighbouring state should be made only after careful examination.
The people of Nagaland and Assam have shared historical, economic, and cultural ties for generations. Public statements without conclusive evidence risk creating misunderstanding, between neighbouring communities. Instead of accusations, both state governments should engage in constructive dialogue, in a spirit of cooperation, mutual respect, transparent data sharing and evidence based policy making, to find lasting solutions to flooding and environmental degradation.
