**Deliberate Arson Destroys Molai Kathoni 2.0 Forest in Assam**
**Meta Description:** Arsonists have devastated the newly restored Molai Kathoni 2.0 forest in Assam, harming biodiversity and igniting public outrage.
**URL Slug:** molai-kathoni-forest-arson-assam
**Headline:** Arson Attack on Molai Kathoni 2.0: A Devastating Blow to Assam’s Biodiversity
In a shocking act of vandalism, miscreants intentionally set fire to Molai Kathoni 2.0, a recently restored forest area along the Brahmaputra River in Assam’s Jorhat–Majuli region. This incident, which occurred on Sunday evening, has resulted in significant damage to saplings and local biodiversity. The plantation is an extension of the renowned Molai Kathoni forest, established by Padma Shri awardee and environmentalist Jadav Payeng, famously known as the “Forest Man of India.”
The fire ignited on a sandbar near the Baghmora eco-camp and quickly spread, destroying over 5,500 saplings that were planted in 2022. The blaze also claimed the lives of numerous insects, rodents, and small animals, although no human casualties were reported. In response to this devastating event, an investigation has been launched, with police and forest officials working together to uncover the perpetrators.
The restoration efforts at Molai Kathoni 2.0 have been spearheaded by Payeng’s daughter, Munmi Payeng, who, alongside approximately 70 volunteers and local community members, has been dedicated to regenerating green cover in vulnerable char areas. Inspired by her father’s legacy, she aims to plant one million native, flood-resistant trees across sandbars to mitigate erosion and flooding on Majuli Island. Her commitment has earned her the title of the “Forest Queen” among local residents.
Munmi Payeng asserted that the fire was a deliberate act, prompting her to rush to the site with volunteers and students. They traveled by boat and fought the flames for hours using branches and shrubs until they managed to bring the fire under control. Jadav Payeng expressed profound sorrow over the loss of young plants and the damage inflicted on the area’s biodiversity.
The incident has raised alarm among environmentalists and local residents alike. Assam Congress chief Gaurav Gogoi condemned the arson, suggesting that such an act could not occur without some form of support, and referenced media reports indicating a potential connection to a sand mafia involved in illegal sand mining near the forest. He has called for the cancellation of sand mining licenses in this ecologically sensitive area and for the swift arrest of those responsible.
Debabrata Saikia, the Leader of the Opposition in the Assam Assembly, has reached out to Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, requesting a judicial inquiry into the arson and the alleged illegal sand mining activities near Kokilamukh. He highlighted that the Molai Kathoni forest, covering approximately 550 hectares, serves as a significant example of grassroots ecological restoration that supports diverse flora and fauna.
Reports indicate that the deliberate fire has devastated an estimated five bighas of plantation, destroying more than 5,000 trees and resulting in the loss of birds, nests, eggs, and small animals. This tragic event has sparked widespread public grief and outrage, underscoring the urgent need for protective measures for such vital ecological areas.
**FAQ Section**
**Q: What is Molai Kathoni 2.0?**
A: Molai Kathoni 2.0 is a newly restored forest area in Assam, an extension of the original Molai Kathoni forest created by environmentalist Jadav Payeng, aimed at enhancing biodiversity and combating erosion.
