- The forest department in Sangola is cracking down on illegal wood smuggling, with cases filed against individuals and companies involved. The range forest officer, Tukaram Jadhav, is leading the mobile squad and preparing a detailed report on the seized wood quantity.
- In Pimpri Chinchwad, the Bhamburda division’s range forest officer, Manoj Barbole, has seized around 900 tonnes of material from illegal mills. Twelve mill owners are facing charges, and ongoing investigations are taking place.
- The investigation has revealed that sawmills primarily serve the demand from hotels, the packaging industry, and households. These illegal units not only contribute to deforestation but also put indigenous tree species such as neem, tamarind, khair, teak, and sandalwood at risk. Pine wood is also being smuggled to meet market demands.
- The forest department is stepping up monitoring efforts to tackle illegal operations and prevent further ecological damage caused by illegal wood smuggling.
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