Forest Dept cracks whip on illegal liquor manufacturing units in Sirmaur district

In a major crackdown on the illicit liquor production, the Forest Department dismantled three illegal distilleries and destroyed 2,100 litres of lahan (fermented raw material used for making liquor) in the dense forests of Khara, located in Paonta Sahib subdivision of Sirmaur district.

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The operation was carried out after the Forest Department received tip-off about unauthorised liquor manufacturing in the Khara forest. Acting swiftly, a team of forest officials raided the site, uncovering three distillation units actively engaged in illegal liquor production. However, before the authorities could apprehend accused, the liquor mafia managed to flee into the dense forest.

Upon discovering the illegal setup, officials immediately dismantled distilleries and destroyed lahan to prevent further production and distribution of illicit liquor in the region. Confirming the raid, Aishwarya Rai, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Paonta Sahib, said, “The Forest Department has taken strict action against illegal liquor manufacturing in the Khara forest. Three distilleries and 2,100 litres of lahan have been destroyed as part of this operation.”

The authorities have expressed concern over the increasing instances of illicit liquor production in the forest areas, which not only results in revenue loss for the government, but also poses a significant threat to the environment and public health. The department has pledged to intensify monitoring and take strict legal action against offenders. Illegal liquor operations in remote forest areas have been a growing concern, as they often serve as safe havens for organised liquor mafias.