Aaqib Rasool 

Ganderbal, October 26 (KNZ):In a decisive move against forest offenders, the Forest Department Ganderbal under the supervision of DFO Iqbal Rasool Dar-IFS, in close coordination with Police Gund, carried out a successful joint operation leading to the seizure of 34 CFTs of illegally felled Fir (Abies pindrow) from Compartment No. 41, Sindh Forest Range.

The operation was launched following specific and credible inputs received by the Range Officer, Sindh, at around 11:00 AM on 26-10-2025 regarding illegal timber dragging by some unidentified persons. Acting swiftly, Block Forest Officer, Gund Forest Block, along with Beat staff, was directed to verify the information on ground and take immediate cognizance under the Indian Forest Act.

Upon reaching the location, the forest team was joined by personnel from Police Station Gund, and a joint operation was initiated. During the action, 34 cubic feet of illicit timber was recovered from the spot. Preliminary investigation revealed that the accused had illegally converted a dry standing tree within the forest area for extraction purposes.

Accordingly, FIR No. 41/2025 has been registered at Police Station Gund, and further investigation is underway to identify and apprehend the culprits involved in the illegal activity.

DFO Ganderbal, Shri Iqbal Rasool Dar-IFS, while commending the swift coordination between forest and police personnel, reiterated that strict and uncompromising action will be taken against all those involved in forest offences. He emphasized that the Forest Department remains deeply committed to protecting green wealth and will continue to conduct such operations to curb illegal logging across the district.

“Illegal extraction will not be tolerated at any cost. We are intensifying our field surveillance and ensuring every offender faces legal consequences,” the DFO asserted.

The Forest Department has reaffirmed its resolve to strengthen on-ground enforcement, ensure ecological preservation, and maintain close synergy with law enforcement agencies in its ongoing fight against forest crimes.KNZ