Mulkhuihama (Bandipora), Sept 3: Due to the prevailing unrest and curfews, the timber smugglers here are felling the green gold and smuggling it to different areas without any inhibitions. 

 Locals said the smuggling in Ajas forest range was being done allegedly in nexus with the forest officials.

 “Smugglers have turned huge forest area into barren land in Mulkhuihama forests including compartments 143 and 144 of Ajas range,” they said.

 “The smugglers cut trees and in no time convert them into planks with the help of temporary band saw machines, which they have been established in the forest,” said Muhammad Idrees Khan a shepherd.

 Timber smuggling has now spread to other areas including Bhutoo, Athwatoo, Arin and Sumlar forests, sources said.

 “The timber smuggling is going unabated and officials are turning blind eye towards the matter,” Liyaqat khan, a local of Mulkhuihama told Greater Kashmir adding “instead of curbing chopping of tress, the officers and officials are boosting the illegal trade.”

 The smugglers, local said carry the illict timber on mules, horses and even use manpower. “School children residing near forests after coming from schools can be seen ferrying green logs form forests” said Javid Ahmed. “We appeal to the Chief Minster, Omar Abdullah and Forest Minster to act against the officers for dereliction of duty.” 

 Divisional Forest Officer Bandipora, Muhammad Maqbool said “The said forest area is being overseen by various departments including Social forestry, Soil Conservation and Wildlife and we have not any information of any damage in the area.” He vowed to take action against offices found involved in the smuggling.

Lastupdate on : Fri, 3 Sep 2010 21:30:00 Mecca time
Lastupdate on : Fri, 3 Sep 2010 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Sat, 4 Sep 2010 00:00:00 IST