Trees felled despite appeals by authorities
Source: The Sangai Express

Thoubal, February 10 2018: In stark contrast to the ongoing efforts of the Forest Department, Police Department and Assam Rifles to protect and conserve the forest resources of the State, some unknown miscreants of Kwarok Maring village have indulged in visible felling and clearing of pine tress at Gwarok Reserved Forest and its nearby areas within Thoubal Forest Division.

The High Court of Manipur, on August 30, last year, October 11 and November 8, issued an order imposing a complete ban on felling of trees in Reserved Forest areas.

On January, this year, a combined team of Forest department and police arrested two workers involved in felling of trees at the said area, reports our correspondent.

Trees felled despite appeals by authorities

The Divisional Forest Officer, Thoubal had filed a case in the Court of the C JM concerned and the same is presently pending in the Court.

The Range Officer, Thoubal, who led the team, interacted with the village authorities and urged them not to allow such activities in the protected area in the future.

He also sought cooperation and support in protecting and conserving the Gwarok Reserve Forest.

Meanwhile, a band saw, set up nearby the Reserved Forests was dismantled by the team.

In spite of repeated requests, the activity of cutting down the pine trees is continuing, especially at around midnight or at dawn.

According to sources, when the field staff of Forest Department visited the area, some individuals who are usually involved in the activity, threatened the staff of dire consequences if they attempted to halt them (miscreants) .