Forest Dept warns of zero tolerance for timber smuggling
Tura, Oct 15: The drive against illegal saw mills has intensified with multiple raids conducted by the Forest Department in East and North Garo Hills on Thursday.
The Forest Department conducted the raids at eight suspected illegal saw mills across Mendipathar and Damas leading to seizure of several sawing equipment and dismantling of sheds.
Forest personnel from Dainadubi, Kharkutta, Darugre and Simsanggre forest ranges took part in the operations with support from the A’chik State People’s Front (ASPF), Northern Zone.
Leading the operation, Range Forest Officer of Dainadubi Range Forest Officer Chisaka Ch Marak issued a stern warning to those involved in forest crimes declaring that there would be zero tolerance for illegal saw mills and timber smuggling.
“The department is committed to forest conservation. We are serious about protecting our forests, biodiversity and natural resources for future generations,” Marak said.
He emphasised that the latest raids were also intended to demonstrate the department’s resolve to protect the region’s natural heritage.
The crackdown follows a similar operation in June, which focused primarily on the Bajong area.
According to the department, several illegal saw mills shut down following that raid. Continued surveillance led to the latest operation in Mendi and Damas.
The department has also called on the public to play an active role in forest conservation. Marak urged residents to report illegal saw milling, timber smuggling and other activities contributing to forest degradation, stressing that conservation efforts cannot succeed through departmental action alone.
