The Assam government carried out a two-day eviction operation on January 6, clearing 6,200 bighas (about 830 hectares) of encroached forest land inside Burhachapori Wildlife Sanctuary across Sonitpur and Nagaon districts. The move was undertaken to restore degraded habitats and curb human pressure inside the protected area.
The eviction covered locations under the Tezpur Sadar and Dhekiajuli revenue circles, including Jamuktol, Arimari, Siyalichar, Baghetapu, Galatidubi, Lathimari, Kundulichar, Purba Dubramari and Batulichar. Officials said several structures had been erected and crops cultivated on the encroached land. While some families dismantled their houses and moved out voluntarily, others sought additional time to harvest crops due to the prevailing winter conditions.
The latest action follows a major eviction drive carried out in February 2025 in the Burhachapori sanctuary and adjoining areas, during which around 2,099 hectares of land were reclaimed, affecting about 12,800 people. In July, tensions were reported during an alleged re-encroachment attempt, when one person died and several others were injured in clashes with forest personnel.
Key details of the eviction drive:
- Location & Scope: The operation targeted areas like Jamuktol, Arimari, Siyalichar, and Batulichar, clearing a total of 6,200 bighas in the Sonitpur and Nagaon districts.
- Administrative Action: The drive, conducted in early January 2026, involved over 300 personnel, 36 excavators, and 60 tractors to remove illegal structures and agricultural fields.
- Environmental Impact: The cleared land is part of a critical buffer zone for the Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, providing a habitat for one-horned rhinoceros, tigers, wild buffaloes, and deer.
- Impact on Inhabitants: Approximately 710 families were affected, with some dismantling their homes voluntarily after receiving notices a month prior.
