Mysuru Forest Authorities Launch Major Enforcement Drive After 46 Trees Illegally Axed
Forest authorities in Mysuru have launched a comprehensive special enforcement drive following the shocking discovery of 46 trees illegally axed along the banks of the Kapila River near Hejjige village in Nanjangud taluk. The incident, which came to light on March 7, has raised serious concerns about organized timber theft operations in the region.
Investigation and FIR Registered
Deputy Conservator of Forests K Paramesh confirmed to media that an FIR has been registered under the Karnataka Forest Act against an unidentified group responsible for the illegal axing. One person named in the FIR is currently absconding, while forest officials have initiated a thorough probe into the matter.
The assistant conservator of forests and the range forest officer have been tasked with leading the investigation, examining whether similar incidents have occurred earlier along the riverbank. Since the axing took place on government land near the river, the forest department is likely to seek assistance from revenue and irrigation officials to strengthen their enforcement efforts.
Wider Inspection of Vulnerable River Stretches
Officials revealed that the large-scale cutting has triggered a broader inspection of vulnerable stretches along the Kapila River. Falling water levels have exposed trees that were previously protected by the river's natural flow, making the banks more accessible to potential offenders and significantly heightening the risk of illegal axing at multiple locations.
The special enforcement operation will cover several strategic points along the Cauvery stretch in the region, with dedicated teams focusing on:
- Identifying fresh stumps from recent cutting activities
- Tracking timber movement patterns in the area
- Looking for signs of coordinated criminal activity
- Increasing patrolling and field checks to prevent further damage
Suspected Organized Network Involvement
Authorities strongly suspect the involvement of an organized network, given the substantial number of trees cut within just two days. The receding river has created what officials describe as a "window of opportunity" for illegal cutters, as trees close to the waterline have become easier targets without the protective barrier of flowing water.
The special drive has dual objectives: to detect past violations through forensic examination of cutting sites, and to deter further axing through increased visibility and enforcement presence. Forest department personnel are stepping up their monitoring efforts to track those responsible and prevent additional environmental damage.
Environmental Activists Demand Action
Environmental activists, led by prominent conservationist Parashuramegowda, have recently urged the district administration to trace the culprits and implement strict preventive measures. Their advocacy emphasizes the need for comprehensive action to protect vulnerable riverbank ecosystems from similar offenses in the future.
The Mysuru forest department's response represents a significant escalation in enforcement activities, reflecting growing concerns about timber theft operations exploiting changing environmental conditions along Karnataka's important river systems.
