G. N Raina

Srinagar, Mar 17 (KNS): The green gold smuggling is going unabated in Kangan forest in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, locals of the area alleged nexus between the smugglers and forest department.

Local told Kashmir News Service (KNS) that the green gold smuggling is going on in Najwan forests of Kangan area and the concern department has miserably failed to take action against the mafia. They said every day the trees are being cut down at the hands of uncontrolled mafia.

Sources told KNS that in Compartment number 1, 2 and 4 in Najwan, which falls under the jurisdiction of Sindh Forest Division Ganderbal, smugglers are seen cutting down trees in broad daylight with forest department watching as mute spectators.

“Taking the advantage of present situation in valley, smugglers are wandering in forests with axes,” a resident said adding that the officials of Forest Department were informed many times but to no avail”.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

He further said that four trees were cut in compartment number 1, 4 in Compartment no. 2 and 3 in compartment no. 4 of Najwan forests.

Locals have accused the officials of the forest division of being “hand-in-glove” with the timber smugglers.

Reports said taking strong notice of unabated loot of green gold, Conservator Forests Srinagar circle have directed Range Officer Control Room Srinagar circle to access the damage caused in these compartments and submit report accordingly.

Conservator Forests Srinagar, Zubair Ahmad Shah told KNS that a committee has been constituted to access the damage and submit report accordingly.

“Once committee will submit its report, stern action will be taken against the elements involved in it,” the official said.

He added that initially Forester of Najwan area, Fayaz Ahmad has been attached and two other forest guards have also been suspended. (KNS)