Rs 3.11 lakh fine imposed in Lahaul illegal logging case
In a decisive crackdown on illegal tree felling, the Forest Department has imposed a fine of Rs 3.11 lakh on two individuals for cutting down green trees in the Tindi forest area of Lahaul’s Udaipur subdivision. The incident, which occurred near Dhandal, came to light after vigilant villagers filmed the illegal activity and circulated the footage on social media.
Acting swiftly in response to the viral video, the Forest Department dispatched an investigation team to the site. The team, led by Block Officer Kuldeep, included forest personnel Yogendra (Kurched beat), Sunil Kumar (Tindi beat) and Vishal (Salgran beat). The on-site inquiry confirmed the unauthorised felling of two trees and 36 wooden sleepers were recovered. Officials also documented the ecological damage caused, underlining the seriousness of the violation.
Following the investigation, Tok Chand and Ram Nath, both residents of Salgran village, were held responsible. Tok Chand was fined Rs 1.55 lakh and Ram Nath Rs 1.56 lakh. In addition, forest officials seized 36 sleepers, four logs and a chain cutter used in the act.
Forest Range Officer Veerbhadra Sharma confirmed that a damage report had been filed under relevant provisions of the Forest Act. He added that legal proceedings will be initiated and a challan submitted in court if the fines are not paid within the stipulated timeframe.
The illegal logging incident has sparked outrage among locals and environmental activists. Former MLA Ravi Thakur criticised the government’s failure to prevent such acts, calling for stricter monitoring and proactive forest conservation.
The case has reignited public debate around the protection of Himachal’s fragile ecosystems and the enforcement of environmental laws. Citizens are demanding more stringent actions and long-term measures to safeguard forest resources from unchecked exploitation.
