Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Dhanraj HD conducted an inspection on Sunday following allegations of illegal tree felling alongside National Highway 49 near Keonjhar town in Odisha. The incident involves the unauthorized cutting of 16 trees and construction of a road by alleged land mafia elements.
Background of Tree Plantation and Handover
According to sources, under a grant from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the Odisha Forest Development Corporation had planted various species of trees on government land along the highway. The corporation also provided fencing on both sides for protection. After maintaining the area for five years, the stretch was handed over to NHAI.
However, due to lack of protection, the land mafia allegedly cut down the trees and constructed a road leading to a plotted land without obtaining permission from either NHAI or the forest department. The illegal activity came to light prompting the DFO's inspection.
Inspection Findings and Official Response
On Sunday, DFO Dhanraj visited the spot near Dharanidhar Medical College and Hospital and confirmed that 16 trees had been felled without the necessary permissions. The DFO stated that a notice would be issued to NHAI regarding the matter. He further said that those responsible for cutting the trees and constructing the road have been identified, and action would be taken as per law.
“Trees have been felled to construct a road. We have identified the culprits and legal proceedings will be initiated,” DFO Dhanraj said.
Legal and Environmental Implications
The illegal felling of trees along a national highway violates environmental and forest protection laws. The incident highlights the vulnerability of green cover on highway stretches after handover from forest departments to highway authorities. The DFO's intervention aims to restore the rule of law and ensure accountability.
Further investigation is underway, and the forest department is coordinating with NHAI to prevent such occurrences in the future. The case underscores the need for sustained protection of roadside plantations.
