TEZU, May 24:Illegal logging is a prevalent menace in a district like Lohit, where timber smugglers taking advantage of the weak infrastructure of the forest department indiscriminately cut trees undermining the law and future consequences.

On May 23, at around 9.50 pm, 3 trucks carrying 17 logs of timber wood were seized near Digaru bridge point. One person was arrested but the rest managed to escape from the spot.

The incident took place when, Oli Koyu, Superintendent Tax and Excise cum State nodal officer narcotic cell received a tip off regarding presence of some drug peddlers from Assam near Digaru bridge point. On reaching the spot, the drug peddlers managed to flee from the spot and instead the loggers were busted.

The matter was immediately informed to the Deputy Commissioner, Tezu who ordered the operation to be completed with the help of the police.

Taking cognizance of the incident and the recently held revenue maximisation meeting, the DC lamented that such illegal activities not only undermines the rule of law but also has led to forest royalty leakage and subsequently government revenue loss.

DC, Danish Ashraf has asked the District Forest Officer and Superintendent of Police to keep vigil in order to prevent and check such illegal activities.

This is just one incident where timber smugglers were unfortunate enough to be caught. Owing to the lucrative  timber trade, improved enforcement of forest laws and upgradation of forest infrastructure is the need of the hour. Moreover, public awareness and cooperation is also needed to keep a check on such illegal trade. (DIPRO)

---

Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

<< Back to News List