In a significant operation, the Dhubri Forest Department on Friday busted an illegal timber mill in Gauripur, seizing a large haul of smuggled wood. The raid, carried out in the Piazbari area, is seen as a decisive blow to timber smuggling networks operating in Assam.
Forest Department Acts on Tip-Off
Officials said the raid followed specific intelligence inputs regarding suspicious activities in Piazbari. Forest personnel, led by Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Ranjan Boro, conducted the operation early Friday morning.
“We had been tracking this illegal timber mill in Gauripur for some time. Today, we managed to catch them red-handed,” said Boro.
During the raid, officials dismantled saw machines, tools, and other equipment used for processing timber.
Huge Stockpile of Smuggled Wood Recovered
Forest officials discovered a massive cache of freshly cut timber, believed to be worth several lakhs in the illegal market. The seized wood consisted primarily of valuable hardwood species, including sal and teak.
“This timber was meant for illegal sale outside the district, possibly across state borders,” said Boro.
Estimates suggest the value of the seized timber could exceed Rs 12 lakh. Officials are still assessing the total quantity recovered from the illegal timber mill in Gauripur.
Environmental Damage a Growing Concern
Illegal timber operations are a serious threat to Assam’s forests. Experts warn that smuggling not only destroys valuable tree cover but also impacts biodiversity and local livelihoods.
“Timber smuggling causes irreversible ecological loss,” said Dr. Anupam Das, an environmentalist from Gauhati University.
The Piazbari raid underlines how smuggling syndicates continue to exploit forest resources despite strict laws like the Indian Forest Act and Assam Forest Regulation.
Arrests and Further Investigation Underway
Forest officials confirmed that at least two individuals linked to the mill were apprehended during the raid. Their identities have not yet been disclosed as investigations continue.
“We’re interrogating those arrested to trace the larger network behind this illegal timber mill in Gauripur,” said Boro.
The department is also exploring connections to timber traders outside Assam.
Political Leaders React
Local politicians have praised the forest department for its quick action.
“Such operations are crucial to save Assam’s forests. We demand strict punishment for those running the illegal timber mill in Gauripur,” said MLA Abdul Kalam Azad from Gauripur constituency.
Opposition parties have called for tighter surveillance along forest boundaries to prevent further smuggling.
Community Role Vital to Protect Forests
Environmentalists stress that public awareness is key to stopping illegal logging. Villagers around Gauripur have been urged to report suspicious timber activities.
“Communities are the first line of defence. Only with public cooperation can we end illegal timber smuggling,” said Dr. Das.
The Dhubri Forest Department plans more awareness drives and community meetings in smuggling-prone areas.
Future Crackdowns Promised
DFO Boro warned timber mafias that similar raids would continue.
“This is just the beginning. We will keep cracking down on every illegal timber mill in Gauripur and elsewhere,” he declared.
Forest officials have vowed to work with police, intelligence agencies, and neighbouring states to dismantle larger networks.
Meanwhile, the seized timber has been shifted to the Dhubri Forest Range Office for legal procedures.
Call to Action
Residents and local authorities must stay vigilant to prevent further exploitation of Assam’s precious forests. The Dhubri Forest Department appeals to citizens to report illegal activities promptly.
The battle against illegal timber operations continues, ensuring that Assam’s forests remain protected for future generations.
