Timber Smuggling Crackdown in Jammu's Doda District

Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district have detained two habitual timber smugglers under the Public Safety Act amid a crackdown on illegal activities. Following a media report, forest officials were removed, and investigations into illegal logging in Bhaderwah's Chirala range have intensified.

In a stringent measure to curb timber smuggling, officials in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district have detained two individuals under the Public Safety Act, as part of a larger crackdown. The detained individuals, identified as Hashim Din Magray and Bilal Ahmed Wani, have a history of repeated offenses under forest laws.

Following a media report highlighting the illegal felling of over 100 conifer trees in the Tanta Block of the Bhaderwah forest division, several teams were dispatched to assess the situation. The involvement of senior forest officials in illegal logging was confirmed, leading to their removal from key positions.

The National Green Tribunal has also taken notice of these illegal activities, issuing notices to relevant authorities for a detailed response. As investigations continue, officials warn of more stringent actions against other violators.

(With inputs from agencies.)