Forest officials have uncovered an illegal khair wood depot operating in the Garhshankar subdivision of Hoshiarpur district, exposing ongoing timber smuggling activities in the region. The discovery has sparked outrage among local residents who are demanding immediate action against the forest mafia responsible for the illegal operations.
Secret Timber Operation Exposed
The illicit depot was located in the Cholang area near Garhshankar, where authorities found significant quantities of illegally harvested khair wood. Khair wood, scientifically known as Acacia catechu, is a protected species under forest conservation laws due to its ecological importance and commercial value.
Local sources revealed that the illegal operation had been running for an extended period, with the perpetrators allegedly having connections to the timber mafia. The discovery came after persistent complaints from area residents about suspicious activities in the forested region.
Community Outcry and Demands
Residents of Garhshankar have expressed strong anger over the illegal timber depot and are calling for stringent measures against those involved. Community members have specifically demanded that the forest department take immediate legal action against the timber smugglers and ensure such activities cannot continue in the future.
The local population has highlighted concerns about the environmental damage caused by illegal logging activities. They emphasize that uncontrolled harvesting of khair trees threatens the ecological balance of the region's forests and damages the natural habitat of various species.
Official Response and Investigation
Forest department officials have confirmed the discovery of the illegal khair wood depot and have initiated a comprehensive investigation into the matter. Authorities are working to identify all individuals involved in the timber smuggling operation, from the cutters to the distributors and buyers.
The department has seized the confiscated wood and is following proper legal procedures to handle the case. Officials have assured local residents that strict action will be taken against anyone found involved in the illegal timber trade, regardless of their position or influence.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of illegal logging activities in Punjab's forest areas and the need for enhanced surveillance and community involvement in protecting valuable forest resources. The forest department has encouraged residents to report any suspicious activities related to timber smuggling to help prevent similar operations in the future.
