D Morigaon
Dr. Sanjib Kumar Borkakoti, a member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), has expressed grave concern over the recent decision by the Assam government to withdraw the sanctuary status of Garbhanga Wildlife Sanctuary and the widespread destruction of forest cover in Assam.
In a press release, Dr. Borkakoti highlighted his concerns and announced his intention to raise these issues in international forums. He expressed dismay over the deterioration of Assam's natural environment and the role of the Assam government in contributing to this degradation.
One of the key issues that Dr. Borkakoti addressed is the withdrawal of sanctuary status from Garbhanga Wildlife Sanctuary, which had been declared a wildlife sanctuary by the government in 2022 but had its status revoked in 2023. This decision was made during a cabinet meeting on August 25, 2023, and was officially communicated through a gazette notification issued by the Environment and Forest Department on September 26, 2023. Dr. Borkakoti emphasized that such regressive actions are regrettable and can lead to increased air pollution, which poses health risks such as asthma, heart disease, and lung cancer. Loss of forest cover also contributes to ecological imbalances and reduced precipitation.
Dr. Borkakoti further highlighted the degradation of Deepor Beel, an important water body and bird sanctuary in Guwahati. He noted that this degradation occurred due to initiatives by the Assam government and the Indian Army, including the organization of the Rising Sun Water Festival, which involved filling the water body with soil.
Another critical issue raised by Dr. Borkakoti is the widespread felling of valuable trees during the construction of four-lane roads across the state. This action is in contrast to earlier promises by the Prime Minister of India to relocate roadside trees during road widening projects. Dr. Borkakoti pointed out that Assam has witnessed a significant loss of green cover, leading to a rise in temperatures across the state.
As a member of the IUCN, Dr. Borkakoti feels a deep responsibility to protect and preserve nature. He intends to raise these issues on global platforms within the IUCN to draw attention to the urgent need for conservation efforts in Assam.
