Illegal Logging and Farming Rampant in Uttarakhand's Forests: Allegations of 'Mafia Rule

New Delhi: Uttarakhand, a state known for its pristine forests and natural beauty, has been embroiled in a series of controversies since the formation of the BJP-led government last year. The recent issues include the Ankitā Murder Case, leaked government exam papers, police brutality against unemployed youth, and various other incidents. Adding to the concerns, there are now allegations of illegal logging and unauthorized farming within forest lands. While the state government has suspended several forest officials and employees in connection with these cases, locals argue that large-scale deforestation cannot happen without proper oversight and accountability. People demand thorough investigations into each case of forest exploitation and strict actions against all involved parties.

 

Just recently, a significant number of precious deodar and pine trees were reportedly cut down in the Kanāsar Range of the Chakrata Forest Division. Reports suggest that this was carried out under the pretext of measuring land for cultivation. "Nāp Bhūmi," a concept that designates land with specific farming rights to local communities, is at the heart of this issue. Permission from the state government is essential for felling trees of species like deodar and pine on Nāp Bhūmi, and acquiring such permissions is not a straightforward process.

 

Sources indicate that the extent of logging seen in the Kanāsar Range is highly suspicious, as it is unlikely to be carried out without the involvement of forest officials and influential individuals. The centuries-old deodar forest has been cleared extensively, and there have been unauthorized felling of many valuable trees. The situation prompts a call for meticulous scrutiny and an evaluation of whether proper permissions were obtained. A deodar tree in the Kanāsar Range, believed to be around three centuries old, has been classified as a protected tree. This particular deodar tree is the oldest of its kind in Asia, with a girth of 6.33 meters. Forest authorities are now searching for the logs of the cut trees. In the vicinity, pine trees are abundant, enhancing the beauty of the city.

 

Similarly, the Purola-Tons Range in the Uttarkashi district witnessed the illegal felling of 108 green deodar trees not too long ago. The Forest Development Corporation was granted permission to cut down 788 trees, but this permission was allegedly misused to cut down 108 deodar trees. As a result, 17 forest officials and employees have been suspended. Similar instances of suspensions are reported in the Kanāsar Range as well. Furthermore, a case of unauthorized farming on a large scale has come to light in the forest area of the Rajaji National Park. The forest was cleared to make way for cultivation.

 

Uttarakhand's abundant forest resources make it a treasure trove, which has led to the attention of illegal timber traders and poachers. The illicit trade of timber, as well as the harvesting of leaves and medicinal plants, is not uncommon. The mining mafia also operates actively within the state. Locals believe that the Kanāsar and Tons cases have gained prominence due to their scale, but similar activities occur across various forest ranges. They suspect a larger conspiracy involving both government officials and influential individuals. They emphasize the need for a thorough investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to expose all parties involved and ensure full transparency.

 

It remains to be seen how the situation will unfold and whether these allegations will lead to stricter regulations and conservation efforts to protect Uttarakhand's valuable forest resources.