Alleged Arson Attack Hits Molai Kathoni 2.0 Plantation Founded by 'Forest Man' Jadav Payeng's Daughter

An act of alleged arson has damaged a vital reforestation project linked to Padma Shri Jadav Payeng, "Forest Man," on an emerging sandbar along the Brahmaputra River in Majuli, Assam.

The blaze erupted Sunday afternoon at the site known as Molai Kathoni 2.0, a renewed afforestation effort spearheaded by Payeng's daughter, Munmi Payeng. Launched in 2022 with the help of approximately 70 volunteers, the initiative has seen hundreds of saplings planted to restore vegetation on the vulnerable river island.

Unidentified individuals reportedly ignited the fire, destroying portions of the young plantation. Officials are still evaluating the full extent of the destruction, and the reasons behind the attack remain unclear.

Inspired by her father's legendary creation of the original Molai Forest—a man-made woodland spanning over 1,300 acres—Munmi Payeng has earned the affectionate title "Forest Queen" from locals. Her project focuses on combating severe erosion in Majuli, the world's largest river island, by aiming to plant one million flood-resistant native trees across sandbars and char areas.

Collaborating closely with indigenous tribal communities, she seeks to build natural barriers against flooding, rehabilitate degraded lands, and foster long-term ecological stability in the region.

The incident has raised alarms among conservationists and residents, who worry it could jeopardise ongoing efforts to protect the Brahmaputra's delicate riverine ecosystem.

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