Forest Department Foils Illegal Timber Smuggling Attempt in Hajin

Bandipora, March 11: The Forest Department on Tuesday foiled an attempt to illegally cut and transport timber during a late-night operation in Hajin area of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district.
Officials said that a joint team from the Forest Department’s Ningli Range, along with forest guards and in coordination with Police Station Hajin, intercepted a tractor carrying illegally felled timber around midnight in Compartment No. 10 of the Hajin forest area.

The tractor, which was allegedly being used to transport timber for commercial purposes, was seized on the spot. Sources said the timber had been extracted without valid permits, in violation of forest conservation laws.
Officials added that a preliminary investigation has been initiated to identify those involved in the illegal felling, trace the origin of the timber, and determine the intended destination of the consignment.
Forest authorities stated that illegal logging poses a serious threat to the fragile ecosystem of the region, contributing to environmental degradation, soil erosion, and loss of biodiversity.
The seized tractor and timber have been impounded, and legal action under relevant provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Act is expected. Police Station Hajin is assisting in the investigation.
Authorities have also appealed to the public to report any suspicious activities related to forest resources.
No injuries were reported during the operation.