In Himachal Pradesh’s Chopal region, the forest mafia has unveiled a new method to smuggle deodar wood, utilizing condemned vehicles that were previously sold as scrap. The forest department recently discovered 28 deodar sleepers hidden in two Maruti vehicles in Kupvi, shedding light on the evolving tactics of illegal wood smugglers.
The forest department acted on a tip-off regarding the illicit transportation of deodar sleepers. While one team set up a check post in Kupvi, another pursued the suspected vehicles. Upon realizing they were being tracked, the smugglers abandoned the vehicles and fled the scene. Upon inspection, the team found 28 deodar sleepers concealed inside the abandoned vehicles.
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Further investigation revealed that the two vehicles had been sold as scrap over two years ago. The forest department and police have since registered an FIR and seized the vehicles, while efforts continue to locate the culprits involved in the smuggling operation.
Decade-Long Smuggling Operation in Chopal Region
Illegal deodar tree felling has plagued the Chopal region for more than ten years, particularly in areas such as Sarahan, Lingzar, and Kupvi. Reports indicate large-scale tree cutting, with the forest mafia utilizing small roads to covertly transport the illicit wood.
Despite repeated complaints from locals, both the forest department and police have faced criticism for their lack of effective action against the smugglers. Residents have long called for a thorough investigation into the illegal activities and for the dismantling of the smuggling network. They argue that the failure of law enforcement agencies to act decisively has empowered the forest mafia, leading to widespread ecological damage in the region.
The discovery of deodar sleepers in scrap vehicles highlights the adaptability of the forest mafia and underscores the urgent need for stronger enforcement measures. Environmentalists and locals are urging authorities to take swift action to protect the region’s fragile ecosystem and ensure those responsible for the smuggling are held accountable.
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