Forest Officials and Security Teams Step Up Search Operations Amid Timber Smuggling Concerns in Jalpaiguri

Jalpaiguri: Following concerns over alleged illegal timber cutting and forest produce trafficking in parts of Jalpaiguri district, security and forest personnel have intensified search operations in the affected areas.

According to information available locally, the BSF, Forest Department task force and other teams have jointly conducted search operations across different locations, including checks in residential areas as part of efforts to identify those allegedly involved in illegal timber activities.

Concerns have also been raised over alleged illegal logging and the role of some individuals and networks involved in the illicit movement of forest timber. Local reports indicate that some sawmills are allegedly being used during night hours to process timber suspected to have been sourced illegally.

There are also allegations that an illegal timber supply chain operates through areas between Dhupguri and Madarihat and extends towards parts of the North Bengal forest belt. These allegations have not been independently established and would require verification through official records and investigation findings.

Local concerns have further been raised regarding the movement of timber through areas around the MMP Range and Ambari, with some claims suggesting that the network may extend towards Balakoba and Malda. Allegations of cross-border movement towards Bangladesh have also been made, although these claims require confirmation from the concerned authorities.

The reported network is said to involve several locations, including Lalbazar and Barubari. Concerns have also been raised about the alleged use of sawmills for cutting valuable forest species such as sal and sagun along routes connecting areas from Camper Hat through Balakoba and Ambari.

As search and enforcement operations continue, the focus remains on identifying the source of illegally cut timber, determining whether any organised network is involved and taking action based on verified evidence. Any involvement of specific individuals, sawmills or officials would need to be established through an authorised investigation.

The allegations also underline the importance of monitoring forest corridors and timber movement in the border areas of North Bengal. Further developments are expected as the concerned agencies continue their verification and enforcement efforts.

— Reported from Jalpaiguri