Meer Javeed
Handwara, Oct 30: Mawer area of the Langate Forest Division in North Kashmir has become a hotbed of illicit timber smuggling, with Compartment No. 24 to 26 turning into a haven for jungle smugglers.
Boldly conducting their illegal activities in broad daylight, these criminals have managed to evade authorities, raising serious concerns about the potential environmental fallout.
The audacity of these timber smugglers has left local residents alarmed and dismayed. Despite the daylight heists taking place, authorities have struggled to put an end to the ongoing looting of the area’s precious green gold. Local residents have united in their appeal to the authorities to take swift and stringent action against those responsible for the wanton destruction of this vital natural resource.
“Just a few days ago, a significant incident took place in forest compartment No.25 of Khudi Mawar, a diligent team of officers from Handwara Police led by SHO Qalamabad under the supervision of SDPO Handwara rushed towards the spot and achieved a significant breakthrough on 19th of Oct 2023 when they seized 5 logs of Deador (Himaliyan Cedar) measuring upto 22 CFT.
The residents have earnestly appealed to the authorities for a comprehensive reshuffle of all staff within this forest division, emphasizing the need to prevent any further instances of looting in the area.
Upon reaching out to Chief Conservator North Mr.Irfan Rasool , he said that a team will be formed to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter, aiming to hold the culprits accountable within the bounds of the law. Also he said control room officials are set to conduct visits to these areas to facilitate the investigative process and ensure that those involved in smuggling activities are duly apprehended and brought to justice.
