Satellite Study Reveals Severe Forest Loss in Assam Due to Encroachment and Agriculture
A recent satellite-imagery-based study has highlighted significant forest degradation in Assam, India, due to human activities such as encroachment and agriculture. Conducted by researchers from Raha College, Gauhati University, and Dimoria College, the study focused on the reserve forests of North Bank, including Behali Wildlife Sanctuary, Biswanath, Gohpur, Naduar, and Singlijan Reserved Forests. Using Landsat 5 and Landsat 8 satellite imagery over a 30-year period (1990-2020), the study found a marked decline in dense forest areas, with Biswanath Reserved Forest losing 65.92% of its dense forest cover. The study also noted an increase in agricultural lands and settlements, which have encroached upon forest boundaries, leading to habitat fragmentation and biodiversity loss.