In response to an attack on a forest guard, the Forest Department launched a large-scale operation to crack down on illegal logging activities in Singadhar forest in Salooni division of Chamba district. The operation, which began on Monday, targeted villages surrounding the forest and uncovered large quantities of illegally felled timber, logs and planks hidden in private homes.

The investigation was triggered by an incident on the previous Saturday, in which two individuals, Ghindro Ram and Karma from Bidhwad village, allegedly assaulted a forest guard and tore his uniform during an interrogation session over logging illegal in Koyal forest in Singadhar.

Acting under the leadership of Chamba Conservator of Forests Abhilash Damodaran, a joint team from Churah, Chamba and Dalhousie forest divisions raided neighboring villages including Bidhwad, Tikru and Dhar. The team, made up of 20 members, collected 20 boards from various houses in the area. The villagers were unable to produce valid documentation for the wood and were given one day to submit proof.

At the accused’s home, the wood used in the construction of the houses was measured and discrepancies were noted between the volume of wood recovered and the documents provided. Additionally, 15 logs were found in the yard of one of the accused, further increasing suspicion. A total of 4.25 cubic meters of illegally sawn timber, valued at Rs. 2.79 lakh, was recovered during the raids.

The assault on forest guards has brought three villages – Bidhwad, Tikru and Dhar – under the surveillance of the Forest Department. A separate police investigation is underway into the assault. Salooni divisional forest officer Sushil Guleria said a 24-member team would continue to conduct house-to-door searches in the area over the next few days, and a detailed report on illegal logging would be soon available.

The raids have alarmed local villagers and the Forest Department is considering revoking the timber distribution rights (TD) of residents of the three villages in question. These rights, which allow villagers to obtain wood for their personal use, could be suspended depending on the ongoing investigation and the extent of illegal logging discovered.