Chandigarh, Dec 20: Several khair trees were allegedly felled illegally from the eco-sensitive zone adjoining the Nangal wildlife sanctuary on Thursday evening, sparking concern among environmentalists and residents over continued degradation of forest land in the Shivalik foothills of Ropar district.
Sources said the trees were cut from notified forest land bordering the sanctuary, an area where human activity is tightly regulated to safeguard biodiversity. Locals alleged that those involved in the felling were politically well-connected, a factor they claimed led to inaction even after the incident was reported.
Residents of nearby villages said forest officials reached the spot after receiving information and halted further cutting. However, they alleged that no formal case was registered under the Forest Act or the Wildlife Protection Act.
Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Ropar, Kanwardeep Singh said the department had taken five felled khair trees into custody. “The villagers involved are claiming that the land is private. We have ordered demarcation to ascertain whether it falls under forest land or private ownership. Further action will be taken after demarcation,” he said.
Repeated attempts to contact DFO (Wildlife) Monika Yadav for her response on the alleged violation of eco-sensitive zone norms did not elicit any reply.
Local residents said incidents of illegal khair felling tend to rise during winter in the Shivalik ranges, when demand for the wood increases. They alleged smugglers exploit remote forest stretches under the cover of darkness.
Environmentalists warned that the loss of khair trees threatens the fragile ecology of the Shivaliks, an area vulnerable to soil erosion and landslides. The forest around the Nangal wildlife sanctuary also acts as an important wildlife habitat and corridor, making repeated violations a serious concern. Locals have demanded a thorough probe and strict action against those responsible.
