2 Makum teachers take on toxic weeds as authorities remain silent

Time of India

22-06-2025

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Dibrugarh: Two schoolteachers from Makum in Tinsukia district have taken it upon themselves to combat the growing menace of toxic Parthenium plants.
With machetes and a banner reading "Remove Parthenium, Restore Nature", Manjit Thakur, headmaster of Dhola Hahkhati High School, and Utpal Baruah, headmaster of Bajaloni ME School, have been clearing the invasive weed along the Makum-Digboi Road while educating locals on its dangers.
Despite the rapid spread of the hazardous plant across Makum — including near the Railway High School and residential areas around the railway station — the Makum Municipal Board has taken no action. Frustrated by the authorities' inaction, the two educators have used their free time to manually remove the weed and spread awareness.
Parthenium hysterophorus, also known as Congress grass or carrot weed, is an invasive species that poses significant health and environmental risks.
Its pollen can trigger severe asthma attacks, while skin contact may cause painful rashes and blistering. The plant is particularly dangerous for children, pregnant women, and people with respiratory conditions. In agricultural areas, it competes with crops for nutrients and light, reducing yield.
It also suppresses native vegetation, threatening biodiversity.
"The spread of Parthenium in Makum has reached alarming levels.
If not tackled now, it will endanger both human health and agriculture," said Thakur. "Many people don't realise how harmful this plant is. It spreads rapidly and will soon overrun our fields and roadsides if left unchecked. If our efforts prompt even a few people to act or raise official attention, we'll consider it a success," he added.
While continuing their grassroots drive, the teachers have called on authorities to launch a large-scale eradication campaign.
"As educators, our duty goes beyond the classroom. We're committed to protecting the environment and raising public awareness," said Baruah. "Manual removal is just a temporary fix. The govt must allocate funds and deploy manpower to address this issue effectively," he added.
Local residents have echoed their concerns, expressing growing frustration over the lack of official response.
"These plants are everywhere — near our homes, where children play, along our roads.
We deeply appreciate what the teachers are doing, but this is the municipality's responsibility. Proper resources and coordination are needed," said social worker Binod Gogoi.
Despite the scale of the problem, the two educators remain undeterred. They carry out their cleanup mission on weekends and after school hours — setting a powerful example of civic duty that has inspired others in the community to join their cause.