Forest Department Cracks Down on Illegal Khair Smuggling in Nalagarh; Tempo Driver Arrested

Solan, May 26:
The Forest Department has unearthed a major case of illegal khair (Acacia catechu) smuggling during a night patrol in Sanerh village, under Nalagarh subdivision. Acting swiftly, the department’s team intercepted a tempo carrying felled khair trees and arrested the driver, while one accomplice managed to flee the scene.

The operation was carried out in the forest area near Sanerh, which falls under Bhatia panchayat. According to officials, the patrolling team spotted a tempo involved in suspicious activity. When signaled to stop, the driver attempted to escape but was apprehended after a brief chase.

Upon inspection, the tempo was found to be loaded with illegally felled khair logs—five trees in total. During preliminary questioning, the driver admitted that the wood had been cut from nearby forests and was being transported for illegal sale. The vehicle has been seized, and the recovered timber has been taken into custody by the department.

Confirming the incident, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Nalagarh, Vikalp Yadav, said that such smuggling poses a serious threat to forest resources. He added that the market value of the seized wood is estimated to exceed ₹3 lakh, making it a clear violation of the Forest Act. “Strict action will be taken against those involved. There will be no leniency,” he emphasized.

The arrested driver has been handed over to the Nalagarh police, and a search operation is underway to apprehend the absconding accomplice. The DFO also stated that forest teams are maintaining heightened vigilance in the area to safeguard natural resources. This prompt and decisive action by the Forest Department sends a strong message: any attempt to exploit forest wealth will be met with strict legal consequences.