MLA alleges felling of 400 trees in Kullu forest

Our Correspondent

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Kullu, August 16

Banjar MLA Surender Shourie has alleged that 400 big green trees have been illegally felled in the forest of Shurag Shilh under Seraj forest division. Addressing a press conference here today, he alleged that the contractor engaged by Himachal Pradesh State Forest Development Corporation Limited to collect dry wood had illegally felled green trees. He further alleged, “Around 3,000 slippers of green trees are lying in a godown at Dimanchari. Instead of collecting dry, diseased, uprooted and damaged trees, the contractor has engaged labour from Kashmir to axe green trees.”

The MLA said he had approached Chief Secretary, Secretary, Forest Department, and Kullu Chief Conservator of Forest to take cognisance of the matter and initiate stern action against the contractor and erring officials. He alleged that illicit felling of trees was being covered up by some higher-ups. He said this illegal activity had been going on unabated on a large scale.

The leader alleged that the contractor was trying to hide stumps of chopped trees under mud, besides tampering with their count. He said, “The government is in a deep slumber while the forest mafia is carrying out illegal activities.” He said a high-level inquiry should be initiated. If immediate action was not taken an appeal would be filed with the NGT and the High Court in this connection.