Handwara,Jan 30: In a shocking case of environmental destruction, around 50 to 70 evergreen Keekar trees have been illegally felled in Social Forestry Compartment 22-B, located in the upper areas of Takibal village in Handwara. Local civil society members have urged the authorities to take immediate action against those responsible, including officials and employees involved in the act.
According to residents, an active timber mafia has been operating in the area for the past year, with increased activity over the last 7-8 months. The illegal logging is reportedly being carried out under the pretext of collecting firewood for local mosques, without obtaining the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC) or completing other official formalities. This blatant violation goes against government regulations, particularly Order No. DIR/DSF/C&E/1828-43 dated 27-12-2022, which mandates strict procedures for safeguarding evergreen trees in social forestry compartments.
Concerned citizens have expressed outrage over the large-scale felling, highlighting the severe ecological consequences such as soil erosion, habitat destruction, and climate imbalance. They have appealed to Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha and relevant government agencies in North Kashmir to intervene urgently and bring the culprits to justice.
When contacted, the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) confirmed that the department received a complaint about the illegal felling and has initiated an investigation. "Our team, led by the concerned officer, visited the site this morning. A detailed report is being prepared, and strict action will be taken against those involved. Even department employees found complicit will not be spared," the DFO assured.
With growing public outcry, environmental activists and local residents are demanding strict enforcement of forest protection laws to prevent further destruction of Kashmir’s green cover.
Comment List