Hill cutting reportedly continued at Amsing, Jorabat, within the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) of Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary, despite an injured elephant being spotted near the site on October 25, 2026. The incident has raised concerns about wildlife protection and enforcement by the Forest Department.

Key Facts and Developments

• Location: The site falls within the Amchang ESZ, approximately 200 metres from the boundary of Block-II of Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Threat to elephant movement: The department identified the area as an active elephant corridor, where habitat disturbance can increase human–elephant conflict.
• Continued excavation: Two JCB excavators and dumpers were reportedly used to cut the hill and transport excavated earth during the night of October 25–26.
• Lack of permission: A Forest Department officer confirmed that no permission or No Objection Certificate (NOC) had been issued for the hill cutting and related activities.
• Damage to natural features: The site reportedly showed extensive excavation, a partly blocked natural water body and construction of a large warehouse-like structure.
• Delayed response: Although authorities were alerted and forest personnel visited the site, the formal departmental report confirming fresh hill cutting was issued only on Wednesday, October 28.
• Earlier warning: An Eco-Sensitive Zone-related notice had reportedly been served at the location in August, while the blocking of the natural water body had been observed about a month before the latest inspection.

Environmental and Governance Concerns

• Habitat degradation: Hill cutting and obstruction of water bodies can damage elephant habitats and disturb natural movement.
• Weak enforcement: The reported delay in formal action raises questions about coordination, monitoring and accountability among field authorities.
• Ecological consequences: Disturbance in elephant corridors may push wildlife closer to settlements, increasing the risk of conflict.
• Need for restoration: The incident highlights the importance of investigating unauthorised excavation, examining the movement of excavated earth and restoring the blocked water body where feasible.

Exam Hook: Key Takeaway

The Amchang incident highlights the gap that can emerge between environmental protection measures and their enforcement on the ground. Effective conservation requires timely intervention, clear jurisdictional responsibility and protection of wildlife corridors.

One-line wrap: Protecting Amchang’s elephant corridor requires not only legal safeguards but also prompt enforcement and ecological restoration.