Assam’s Forest Minister, Jayanta Mallabaruah, announced a heightened crackdown on illegal timber activities in the state. A total of 23 enforcement actions have been conducted as part of this initiative to combat illegal logging and sawmills. The Forest Department’s “mission mode” operation has already led to the seizure of 11 illegal band saw mills in Northern Assam and three in Eastern Assam.
The recent enforcement drive in the Lower Assam Zone resulted in the dismantling of five illegal band saw mills in districts like North Kamrup, Hailakandi, and Sribhumi. Additionally, three illegal timber shops were seized, along with a timber sizing machine in Hailakandi district. Minister Mallabaruah emphasized that this crackdown is just the beginning of a sustained effort to eradicate illegal timber operations and ensure accountability.
The government’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against illegal timber trade was reiterated by Mallabaruah, who stated that the enforcement actions will persist until all illegal activities are addressed. An infographic shared by the minister highlighted the 23 enforcement actions taken across Assam, underscoring the government’s intensified focus on combating illegal logging and safeguarding forest resources.
