Kolhapur Forest Department Launches Intensive Campaign to Combat Forest Crimes
The forest department in Kolhapur district has recently executed a comprehensive and targeted campaign aimed at curbing criminal activities within its forested regions. This special drive, meticulously planned and implemented, involved the coordinated efforts of forest guards, forest rangers, and Range Forest Officers across the district boundaries. The primary objective was to prevent and address various forest-related offenses, ensuring the protection of natural resources and wildlife.
Significant Crackdown on Illegal Poaching and Transportation
Deputy Conservator of Forests Dhairyasheel Patil provided detailed insights into the campaign's outcomes. Over the past six months, the department has registered 12 cases of illegal poaching, leading to the arrest of 25 suspects. Additionally, authorities seized 7 vehicles and 8 mobile phones linked to these activities, disrupting networks involved in wildlife exploitation.
In a parallel effort, the campaign targeted the illegal transportation of forest produce. A total of 58 cases were filed against vehicle owners, resulting in the collection of a staggering Rs 58 crore fine from 139 suspects. These vehicles were found carrying timber and firewood, highlighting the scale of unauthorized resource extraction.
Addressing Human-Wildlife Conflicts and Providing Compensation
The department also documented and responded to incidents of human-wildlife interaction. 21 cases of wild animal attacks were registered, including:
- 4 fatalities
- 10 serious injuries
- 7 minor injuries
Furthermore, to mitigate the impact on local communities, the department handled 230 cases of livestock casualties, disbursing over Rs 27 lakh in compensation to affected individuals. In instances of crop damage, which numbered 9,672 cases, compensation exceeding Rs 4 crore was provided, underscoring the department's commitment to supporting residents.
Legal Actions and Asset Recovery in Previous Cases
Patil elaborated on earlier legal proceedings, noting that 89 cases of illegal hunting and 5 cases of illegal transportation had been filed in court. As part of these actions, the government confiscated 25 vehicles involved in forest crimes, including:
- 6 motorcycles
- 2 cars
- 6 jeeps
- 2 tempos
- 2 tractors
The auction of these assets yielded Rs 22.6 lakh in revenue for the government. Additionally, 40 cases related to tree felling were registered, emphasizing the department's holistic approach to forest conservation and law enforcement.
