TURA, July 22: Residents of Paromgre village in South Garo Hills have come down heavily on the Nokma of the area for allegedly selling land to one George S Marak for the purpose of scientific coal mining.
The village is significant due to its location, just a few metres beyond the protected core zone of the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve, and as the origin of Wari Chora, a tourist destination that has recently gained national attention. Paromgre falls under the Chokpot C&RD Block in South Garo Hills.
The village is also the source of several rivers that run through South Garo Hills, including the Rongdik, Rompa, Kakija, Rekman and Kantasi, which could dry up in the future if mining activities proceed.
Significantly, the Nokma allegedly sold 150 hectares (1.5 sq km) of land to Marak, with coal extraction work reportedly already under way.
In a statement on Monday, the Chras and clan members of Paromgre A’king, along with local residents, strongly opposed the move for coal mining in the area, accusing the Nokma of selling their ancestral lands without their knowledge or consent. The vast land was allegedly sold for Rs 50 lakh to the coal businessman.
“We, the Chras and clan members of Paromgre Aking, strongly condemn the action of the Nokma. If any attempt is made to forcibly carry out mining activities on our land, we will be compelled to take further action. The Nokma must return the money to George S Marak and cancel this agreement immediately,” the clan demanded.
The members stated that the area was unique, with tourist spots like Wari Chora, from which the people of Paromgre have the potential to earn a livelihood. Strongly opposing any kind of mining activity, they demanded that the plan for coal mining be cancelled immediately.
