The Gauhati High Court has disposed of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning illegal coal mining in Tipam Hills, Digboi, while directing authorities to maintain strict vigilance to prevent further illicit activities. The court’s intervention led to multiple compliance reports being submitted by the State Government and other respondents, confirming that illegal mining activities in Tipam Hills had been halted and are now under constant surveillance .
Amicus Curiae T.J. Mahanta reported that no illegal activities had been reported in the past two years, but urged the court to ensure continued monitoring to prevent any resurgence of coal smuggling.
In addition to addressing illegal mining, the court also raised concerns about the protection of historical monuments linked to the Ahom Dynasty. The Directorate of Archaeology, Assam, reported that a survey is in progress to assess and authenticate these historical sites, with a minimum of two years required for comprehensive exploration and obtaining necessary approvals.
The High Court directed the respondents to expedite the protection process within six months and take proactive measures to safeguard Ahom heritage sites. The court emphasized the necessity of continuous monitoring of Tipam Hills to prevent illegal mining and ensure both environmental and cultural heritage preservation in Assam.
