KNB News Desk
Bandipora 31 March (KNB):The green gold loot is going unabated in Aloosa village of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district as the concerned department is in deep slumber.
Locals in Aloosa Village alleged that a nexus between the smugglers and Forest Department officials has become the source of destruction of forest wealth.
Locals told news agency Kashmir News Bureau (KNB) that “Timber smugglers are chopping the trees without any fear or hesitation during night hours.”
The smugglers along with labourers cut down trees illegally, load it in vehicles and later sell it in various parts of the district, they added.
“Cutting of green trees is now common in our villages and unfortunately, the department is aware about all the information but they failed to take any action against the culprits and gave them free hand to earn illegal money,” said a local.
Moreover, locals of the area have appealed higher authority to look into this serious matter and take strict action against the timber smugglers as soon as possible, so that the precious forest can be saved.
When Kashmir News Bureau contacted District Forest Officer (DFO) Bandipora for his comments, he said, “Recently we have seized timber from the Banlipora area and registered an FIR as well.
These people are calling you because of that and for some personal interests, he added.
He further said, “There is no timber smuggling taking place in the area and that the complaints you are getting is just the outcome of the FIR that we have registered recently.” (KNB)