Sakti: Report: Tula Ram A serious case of alleged large-scale illegal cutting and storage of Arjun trees has surfaced in Sakti district, particularly in Tushar Gram Panchayat and Jaijaipur, where several sawmills are reportedly involved. According to local sources, thousands of tractor-loads of Arjun wood have been cut and stored illegally over a long period.
Villagers allege that this illegal activity has been continuing openly and would not be possible without the alleged involvement and collusion of certain forest department officials. The Arjun tree is considered environmentally and medicinally important, and strict government regulations exist for its protection. Despite this, widespread cutting and storage are allegedly taking place, raising serious concerns.
Local residents claim that wood-laden tractors are being transported day and night, yet no effective action has been taken by the concerned department so far. This has led to questions about the functioning of the administration and enforcement agencies. The villagers fear that if strict action is not taken immediately, the region’s green cover will suffer irreversible damage.
According to environmental experts, Arjun trees play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, especially near water bodies. Illegal logging not only harms the environment but also causes significant revenue loss to the government.
When contacted, forest department officials stated that the matter has come to their notice and that appropriate action will be taken after an inquiry. However, no official confirmation regarding seizures or legal action has been provided so far.
Environmental activists and social organizations have demanded a high-level and impartial investigation into the matter. They insist that if the allegations of illegal logging and corruption are found to be true, strict legal action should be taken against the sawmill operators as well as the officials involved.
The situation now demands urgent administrative attention, and it remains to be seen how swiftly and effectively the authorities act against those responsible.