Srinagar, Sept 30 (KNS): The Jammu and Kashmir Government has informed the Legislative Assembly that damage to green saplings of specified tree species, including Deodar and Pine, was reported in August 2026 at Hajibal Baba Reshi/Waqf land, which falls outside the demarcated boundary of the Reserve Forest.

The government was responding to Unstarred Question No. 1/6/585 raised by Wagoora-Kreeri MLA Irfan Hafiz Lone regarding the alleged illegal felling of trees at Hajibal Baba Reshi/Waqf land.

According to the government reply, the matter was referred to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Tangmarg, for taking cognizance and initiating appropriate action under the J&K Preservation of Specified Trees Act, 1969.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The government stated that the site falls outside the demarcated forest area and is under the possession/control of the J&K Waqf Board. However, Deodar and other notified Pine species are specified trees under the Act.

The Revenue Department has also informed that the area is notified Waqf property and falls outside the notified protected forest land. It further stated that the growth reportedly cut at the site was regenerated bush-type growth.

The matter is presently with the Revenue Department for further necessary action. (KNS)