The Sub-Divisional Forest Department in Tripura's Khowai district has achieved a significant breakthrough on Wednesday in its ongoing drive against illegal logging and timber smuggling, seizing a large quantity of illegally felled timber and multiple vehicles used in the illicit trade.
During a series of raids conducted across Khowai subdivision over the past two days, forest officials recovered approximately 220 cubic feet of illegally cut timber. The department also seized four vehicles allegedly used for transporting the timber, along with tree-cutting machinery employed in the illegal operations.
Sub-Divisional Forest Officer (SDFO) Susmita Das said the value of the seized timber is estimated at nearly Rs 7 lakh. She added that four cases have been registered under relevant provisions of the Forest Act, and investigations are currently underway to identify those involved in the illegal activities.
The Forest Department reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the state's forest resources and stated that strict action against illegal logging and timber smuggling will continue across the region. Officials emphasized that such enforcement drives are essential to curb environmental degradation and protect Tripura's forest wealth.