Mysuru Forest Officials Suspect Organized Crime in Illegal Felling of 46 Trees
Forest authorities in Mysuru have raised serious concerns about an organized crime syndicate potentially being behind the illegal axing of 46 trees at Hejjige village near Nanjangud. The incident has prompted the formation of a special investigation team to probe the case thoroughly.
Details of the Illegal Tree Cutting Incident
Deputy Conservator of Forests K Paramesh informed The Times of India that the illegal cutting of trees along the banks of the Kapila River was first reported on March 7. "Immediately after inspecting the spot, we registered a case and seized the tools used to cut down the trees. One person has already been booked under the Karnataka Forest Act," Paramesh stated.
Preliminary investigations strongly indicate the involvement of an organized group rather than isolated individuals. In response, authorities have established a dedicated team headed by an Assistant Conservator of Forests, with the Nanjangud Range Forest Officer providing crucial assistance to the ongoing probe.
Activist Criticism and Environmental Concerns
Environmental activist Parashuramegowda has launched scathing criticism against multiple government departments, including the forest, revenue, Rural Development and Panchayat Raj departments, and the district administration. He asserted that their "failure to protect trees on government land was evident from this incident."
Parashuramegowda emphasized that the illegal cutting of 46 large trees representing various species constitutes "a grave attack on the environment" and is "extremely regrettable," particularly since it occurred in the home district of the chief minister.
Calls for Action and Protest Threats
The activist has urgently appealed to the district in-charge minister to take swift action and "bring all those involved into the books." He issued a stern warning that like-minded environmental groups would launch a large-scale protest if decisive measures are not implemented promptly to address this environmental crime and prevent future incidents.
This case highlights growing concerns about organized environmental crimes in forest areas and the need for stronger protection measures for government-owned natural resources.
