A large-scale case of illegal logging has come to light in the government forest area under Jhamber Panchayat, where approximately 1,000 Khair trees were reportedly felled in just a few days. The estimated value of the timber runs into crores of rupees.
Locals expressed shock that such extensive felling went unnoticed by the Forest Department. Villagers claim they had previously warned authorities about the forest mafia’s activities, but no action was taken. On Wednesday, an inspection revealed the forest area, once dense with Khair trees, had been systematically cleared under the cover of darkness.
Residents Sanjay Kumar, Balwan Singh, Sunita Devi, Leela Devi, and Vijay Kumar stated that the felled forest borders the village settlement and had been a vital green cover for the community. They criticized the Forest Department for failing to protect the forest despite personnel being deployed for its safety. Villagers are demanding an impartial inquiry and strict action against those responsible.
Following the report of the incident, a joint team from the Forest Department and police visited the site on Wednesday evening to assess the situation. Authorities suspect the operation involved collusion, which allowed the mafia to remove timber without interruption.
Sushil Rana, Divisional Forest Officer, Una, said that if confirmed, the felling of such a large number of Khair trees is a serious and alarming matter. He added that the site will be inspected on Thursday to gather evidence, and strict action will be taken against all involved.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
