Prohibitory order issued under section 163 of the BNSS

Tezpur: In view of a recent tragic drowning incident reported from the Bordikorai River near the Seijosa Eco-Tourism Zone on June 9 last and in order to prevent the recurrence of such incidents, the District Magistrate of Sonitpur, Ankur Bharali, has issued a prohibitory order under Section 163 of the BNSS, effective across the district. As per a report received from the Divisional Forest Officer, Western Assam Wildlife Division, public gatherings at riverside picnic spots such as Jia-Bharali and Bor-Dikorai have been increasing during weekends and festive occasions. These areas, along with additional picnic spots like Rudrapad, Debising Ghat, Ganesh Ghat, and other designated sites, become particularly vulnerable during the flood season and overflow of river banks of the Brahmaputra and its tributaries, further increasing the risk to visitors. Accordingly, to ensure public safety, public entry into designated picnic zones near the Brahmaputra and its tributaries including Jia-Bharali and Bor-Dikorai, and spots such as Bhalukpong, 13th Mile, 12th Mile, and Seijosa has been strictly prohibited until further notice. Police and Forest Department officials have been directed to strictly enforce the order. Warning signals and public awareness measures will also be intensified in coordination with the Forest Department. The order comes into immediate effect. Any violation will invite penal action as per Section 223 of the BNS. The District Administration appeals to all citizens to cooperate and refrain from visiting riverine picnic locations during this period in the interest of public safety. A district administration release said.