Guwahati, July 26 -- The vast floodplain grasslands that define Kaziranga and Manas, Assam's two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are disappearing at an alarming pace, raising fresh concerns among conservationists, forest officials and wildlife experts.

Adding to the concern, the Act Implementation Committee of the Assam Legislative Assembly has alleged that UNESCO has failed to respond despite being formally approached for technical support to restore the rapidly degrading grassland ecosystems.

"UNESCO is a white elephant. We submitted a report to them in 2024. But there is no response," said Khumtai MLA and Committee chairman Mrinal Saikia.

In a letter addressed to the Director-General of UNESCO on December 5, 2024, the Committee said it...