14 May: KATHUA: The Forest Department seized a truck allegedly carrying illegal timber during a checking operation in the Maggar Khad area along the Jammu–Pathankot National Highway in Kathua.
Officials said the timber was reportedly being smuggled from Jammu and Kashmir to Punjab when the vehicle was intercepted by forest authorities during routine surveillance and enforcement activities.
According to officials, the truck was stopped after receiving inputs related to suspicious timber transportation in the area. The vehicle was subsequently inspected, leading to the recovery of illegally transported timber.
Nitin Khajuria said strict action is being taken against individuals involved in illegal timber smuggling and forest-related offences.
He stated that the department has intensified monitoring and enforcement drives to curb illegal transportation of forest produce and protect natural resources.
The seized vehicle has been taken into custody, while further investigation is underway to identify those involved in the alleged smuggling network and determine the source of the timber.
Officials noted that illegal timber smuggling not only causes environmental damage but also affects forest conservation efforts and ecological balance.
Authorities reiterated that enforcement operations and surprise checking drives will continue across vulnerable routes and forest areas to prevent illegal felling and transportation of timber.
Environmental experts have frequently stressed the importance of stricter forest protection measures, particularly in ecologically sensitive regions where illegal logging can contribute to deforestation and environmental degradation.
The Forest Department has urged the public to cooperate with authorities and report suspicious activities related to illegal timber cutting or transportation.
The latest seizure highlights ongoing efforts by forest authorities to strengthen enforcement and crack down on environmental crimes in the region.
