Dimapur, April 29 (MExN): The Thahekhu Village Council (TVC) has imposed a stringent ban on riverbed mining within its jurisdiction in Dimapur district, with effect from June 1, 2026, citing severe environmental and structural damage caused by rampant extraction of sand, gravel and boulders from the Dhansiri River.
The ban, announced during a general meeting on April 18, 2026, was declared by K Kakheho Yepthomi, Head Gaon Bura of Thahekhu Village, stated a press release issued by TVC Chairman Mughavi Chishi and Secretary Inato Yepthomi.
The decision supplements the earlier resolution of the Gaon Buras and the village council dated August 28, 2006, as well as state government orders prohibiting the extraction of natural resources including sand, gravel and boulders from riverbeds and streams.
TVC said the unregulated mining had resulted in soil erosion, flooding of riverbank settlements, environmental degradation, damage to public infrastructure including bridges, and adverse impact on agricultural activities in the area.
The council said it would strictly monitor the entire stretch of the Dhansiri River flowing through Thahekhu village and enforce the ban in totality. Any machinery found within the riverbanks or riverbeds from June 1 onwards would be seized, and defaulters penalised as deemed fit, TVC warned. The ban will remain in force until further notice, it stated.
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