NOB_Bhadradri Kothagudem: In a major operation based on intelligence from the 24×7 Command Control Center, the District Task Force seized 5.235 cubic meters of illegally stored teak wood worth Rs 7.05 lakh in Ankampalem Beat under Dummapeta Forest Range.

Officials of the District Task Force stated that the Forest Department will not tolerate illegal felling of valuable teak trees and purchase, storage or transportation of wood without valid documents. Vigil has been intensified across the district for protection of forest resources.

As part of using modern technology for control of forest crimes, a Command Control Center was recently set up at the District Forest Office and is functioning 24×7 with dedicated staff.

Based on reliable information received by the Command Control Center about illegal storage of teak wood without permission in Ankampalem Beat, the information was immediately passed to the Task Force. Task Force FRO Srinivas along with Dummapeta Range officials and Beat, Section staff swung into action and seized the stock within 24 hours of receiving the information.

On inspection, officials found 57 teak round logs measuring 2.775 cubic meters and 44 teak sawn sizes measuring 2.460 cubic meters without any permit documents. The total seizure is 5.235 cubic meters valued at Rs 7.05 lakh.

When interrogated, the person storing the wood claimed he purchased it from a farmer. Officials made it clear that the claim of purchasing from a farmer does not confer legality. Even if wood is purchased that was obtained from trees felled without permission, it remains illegal. Purchase, storage or transport of forest produce without Forest Department permissions and legal documents will attract action under applicable forest laws.

Officials advised the public to verify the source, permits, transport documents and legality before purchasing any timber.

Officials further stated that illegal felling not only causes loss of timber but also adversely impacts biodiversity, wildlife habitats, soil conservation, water resources and ecological balance.

Forest Department Message: “Think of permission before cutting a tree.. Check its legality before buying timber. Only if we save the forest, water, biodiversity, environment and future generations will be safe.”

The seized wood was handed over to the safe custody of Ankampalem Beat Officer Smt. A. Parvathi in the presence of the Dummapeta Forest Range Officer. Further legal action is in progress as per forest laws.

Section Officers Lokanadham, Prasada Lingam, Beat Officer Ramulu, Dummapeta FRO Srinu, Beat Officers Parvathi, Kantha Rao, Raja Ramesh and other staff participated in the operation.