Locals demand action against smugglers
Waheed Bhat
Bandipora, February 19: Forest Protection Force Bandipora Friday seized 32-ft timber illegally being cut by smugglers at Panar Bandipora.
An official of the department said on the specific information, the forest protection team headed by Inspector Forest Protection Force, Mohammad Maqbool under supervision of Assistant Director Forest Protection Force Bandipora, Mohammad Younus seized 32 feet of timber at compartment number 100 in Panar area.
Talking to Kashmir convener, Inspector Mohammad Maqbool said they have seized timber in forest and have registered a case. He said they have started an investigation though no arrests have been made so
far.
Locals alleged that the loot of green gold is rampant in Panar and Athwatoo area of Bandipora Forest division. They claimed that the higher ups in forest department have failed to act against the erring officers involved in chopping down green trees.
Residents also said that the smugglers get relief as they are influential people. Locals demanded that investigation should be taken in such matters and save administration should take a step forward to protect green gold.