Major Forest Operation in Ganjam Uncovers Illegal Timber Trade
In a significant crackdown on illegal forestry activities, authorities in Ganjam district conducted coordinated raids that exposed three clandestine saw mills operating without proper authorization. The operation, which unfolded on Tuesday, resulted in the seizure of substantial quantities of valuable timber with an estimated market value of approximately Rs 30 lakh.
Coordinated Raids Uncover Illegal Operations
Forest personnel, working in close collaboration with local police forces, descended upon K.Barida village located within the Polasara forest range. The meticulously planned operation involved over 160 dedicated officials from both the forest department and police services, demonstrating the seriousness with which authorities are approaching illegal forestry activities.
The raids commenced in the early morning hours and continued throughout the day, with personnel thoroughly investigating the suspected locations. During their search, officials discovered three separate saw mills that were operating completely outside the legal framework, processing timber without any proper permits or authorization from forest authorities.
Substantial Timber Seizure Includes Valuable Species
The enforcement teams successfully confiscated more than 1500 square feet of processed timber during their operation. The seized wood included several highly valuable and protected species, most notably teak and sal wood, both of which are prized for their durability and commercial value. Forest officials confirmed that the timber represented a diverse collection of species that had been illegally harvested and processed.
Vipasha Parul, the divisional forest officer (DFO) of Ghumusar South division, provided official confirmation of the operation's details. "Our teams have been actively pursuing leads regarding illegal timber operations in this region," Parul stated. "The search continues to apprehend those responsible for both operating these illegal saw mills and stocking the unauthorized timber."
Accused Flee as Investigation Intensifies
Despite the comprehensive nature of the operation, the individuals allegedly operating the illegal saw mills managed to escape before authorities could apprehend them. Officials believe the accused received advance warning of the impending raids, allowing them to flee the village and evade immediate capture.
Forest department sources indicate that the investigation has now expanded beyond the initial raids, with teams pursuing multiple leads to identify and locate those responsible for establishing and operating the illegal facilities. The department is examining potential connections between these operations and broader illegal timber trafficking networks in the region.
The successful operation highlights ongoing concerns about illegal forestry activities in Odisha's forest regions and demonstrates the government's commitment to protecting valuable forest resources. Authorities have emphasized that similar enforcement actions will continue as part of their broader strategy to combat illegal timber trade and preserve the state's natural heritage.
