In a decisive move to ensure sustainable management of riverbed resources and curb illegal mining activities, the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Chümoukedima, has issued an order on 3rd of November 2025, with a series of regulatory orders forming the District Level Monitoring Committee (DLMC) and Sub-Division Level Enforcement Committees for the Chathe River and its tributaries.

The initiative follows growing concerns over the environmental degradation caused by indiscriminate riverbed mining and the use of heavy machinery for extracting sand, gravel, and boulders. The Deputy Commissioner, Polan John, NCS, stated that such unregulated practices have led to erosion, pollution, destruction of aquatic habitats, and threats to public safety and livelihoods.

Under the new directives, a complete ban has been imposed on the use of heavy machinery for extraction of riverbed materials within the jurisdiction of Chümoukedima District, unless proper licenses and permissions are obtained as per the Nagaland Ownership and Transfer of Land and its Resources Act, 1990 and the Nagaland Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 2004. Violators will face stringent penalties including arrest, seizure of machinery, fines, and prosecution.

The District Level Monitoring Committee (DLMC) will be convened by the Deputy Commissioner, Chümoukedima, and will include members from key departments such as Geology & Mining, Police, Forest, Water Resources, PHED, and Agriculture, as well as representatives from the Chakhroma Public Organization. The committee will oversee and periodically review compliance with the regulatory order and ensure effective coordination between agencies.

To strengthen enforcement at the grassroots level, Sub-Division Level Enforcement Committees have also been formed for Medziphema and Seithekema. These committees, headed by respective administrative officers, will include representatives from the Police, Forests, Geology & Mining, local councils, and the Chakhrüma Public Organization. Their responsibilities include regular inspections, prevention of illegal extractions, awareness creation, and reporting compliance to the DLMC.

The Deputy Commissioner emphasized that the cooperation of local communities, village councils, and civil society organizations is vital for protecting and preserving the district’s river resources. The administration urged citizens to support the initiative and work collectively towards environmental conservation and sustainable resource management.

(Limatoshi, IA Chumoukedima)