Excelsior Correspondent
KATHUA, May 13: Continuing its drive against illegal timber and firewood smuggling, the Kathua Forest Division seized another truck illegally transporting firewood to Punjab.
As part of the special enforcement campaign being conducted by the division, a joint team of Kathua Range and APCP Lakhanpur Range intercepted a truck this morning, in the Maggar Khad area. The vehicle, bearing Registration Number JK-19-3512, was reportedly on its way towards Punjab and was found loaded with illegally transported firewood.
The operation was carried out by a joint team led by Nitin Khajuria, Sanjeev Singh, and Sumit Sharma, along with forest personnel from both ranges. The entire drive was conducted under the supervision and direction of Ankit Sinha.
According to the Department, the campaign against illegal felling and smuggling of forest produce has been significantly intensified, leading to several major seizures in recent days.
The Departmental handout said on May 10, five trucks loaded with illegal firewood were seized. Two more trucks were intercepted on May 8, while another truck carrying illegal timber towards Punjab was seized on May 7 as part of the ongoing enforcement operations.
DFO Kathua, Ankit Sinha said that strict action against those involved in illegal felling, transportation, and smuggling of forest resources will continue in the coming days. He reiterated the Department’s commitment to protecting forest wealth and ensuring strict implementation of forest laws.
The Forest Department has also appealed to the public to immediately inform the Kathua Forest Division about any incidents of illegal felling, storage, or transportation of timber so that timely action can be taken.
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