Garhwa: Officials of the forest department have initiated a probe into the alleged felling of trees by the electricity department, reportedly to remove obstructions for the 33 KV wire passing from Ramkanda power sub-station to Bhandaria and Bargarh power sub-stations. The electricity department, which was tasked with pruning branches and bushes along the transmission lines, allegedly cut the trees down without prior approval from the forest department last week.
Locals Report Significant Tree Loss
Among the trees cut down were Mahu, Sal, and Khair, which were felled along the Ramkanda-Bhandaria Road, locals claimed. The incident has raised concerns about the lack of coordination between departments and the potential environmental impact.
Legal Action Initiated
Taking cognizance of the matter, Garhwa divisional forest officer (south division) Ebin Benny Abraham on Saturday filed a case against the electricity department, a contractor, and five linemen under the Indian Forest Act of 1927. The DFO stated, “Investigation is underway to ascertain the number of trees felled, their measurement, and confiscation. Further details will be shared once the probe is over.”
The forest department is now working to determine the extent of the damage and ensure accountability for the unauthorized action.
