Excelsior Correspondent
BHADERWAH, May 26: Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Bhaderwah, Devender Kumar here today conducted an extensive field tour of Gandoh Range of Bhaderwah Forest Division.
The visit focused on assessing ongoing forest protection operations and intensifying enforcement efforts against illegal activities, particularly the unauthorized use of mechanical cutters.
Under the active leadership of Range Officer Bhalesh, Adil Shan, the forest enforcement teams have intensified surveillance and field operations over the past two weeks. As a result, 4 mechanical cutters were seized during this period.
An investigation is currently in progress to determine the origins of these machines and identify the individuals or networks responsible for bringing them into forest areas. Summons were issued to several suspects linked to these operations and they are being called for inquiry from time to time as part of the ongoing legal proceedings.
In order to enhance inter-agency cooperation, the DFO also convened a coordination meeting with local police authorities, focusing on joint patrolling, intelligence sharing and rapid response to forest offenses. Sensitive forest blocks within the Bhalesh Range have been identified for regular monitoring to deter illegal logging, encroachment and wildlife offenses.
Issuing a strong warning to violators, DFO Devender Kumar made a public appeal to the residents of Bhaderwah and adjoining areas to refrain from using or supporting the use of mechanical cutters. He urged individuals still in possession of such cutters to voluntarily surrender them at the nearest Forest Office to avoid legal consequences.
The entire enforcement operation was carried out under the overall supervision of Conservator of Forests, Chenab Circle, Doda, Arshdeep Singh.
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