State Forest Minister Ishwar P Khandre has instructed officials to enhance vigilance across the state to prevent illegal felling of trees, amid the prevailing shortage in LPG supply that has forced many homes and commercial outlets to turn to firewood for cooking.
In a memorandum addressed to the Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force, Bengaluru, the minister warned that the shift towards firewood could lead to felling of trees in forests and other public places. “In this context, there is a risk of logging not only within and on the edges of forests, but also on district plantations, government lands and trees planted on roadsides,” the memo said.
The Minister directed the administration to strengthen surveillance in all forest departments and ranges to prevent such incidents. “It is absolutely essential that the administration maintains strict vigil to ensure that illegal felling of trees does not take place,” the memorandum said, directing officials to take “appropriate patrolling and precautionary measures” in all jurisdictions.
Khandari also warned that local officials would be held accountable if violations occurred. “We are warned that if any illegal felling of trees takes place in forests or government land, the concerned forest officer and staff will be held directly responsible,” the memorandum said.
