Assam: Forest officials busts illegal sawmill in Bongaigaon

The Bongaigaon forest officials on Thursday raided an illegal sawmill and seized timber logs near Kakoijana Reserve Forest in Chipansila in Bongaigaon.

As per sources, the drive was led by the district commissioner and Abhayapuri forest officer.

During the operation, the raiding team seized a large number of wooden logs including saw machines.

Speaking to the media, forest officials said, "As per information received we conducted a raid and seized wooden logs along with machines used to cut the trees. Currently, we are assessing the valuation of the illegal timbers and following which we will inform the District Commissioner."

Also Read: Assam: Forest rangers attacked by illegal timber smugglers in Chirang, two nabbed

Earlier also in the dense greenery of Assam's Goalpara district, a significant anti-encroachment drive has unfolded within the Nalbari Reserve Forest. 

The forest authorities, determined to reclaim the land from illegal occupation, have recently demolished an unauthorized mosque that stood among the trees. 

This action is part of a broader initiative by the Assam government to enforce forest conservation laws and protect its natural heritage.

The Nalbari Reserve Forest, once encroached upon by human settlements, has seen a substantial eviction effort led by the state. 

Speaking to the media, Forest official Tejas Mariswamy said, "Today the eviction drive in the Nalbari reserve forest will be completed...As per the state government's directive, we have to clear the encroachment and restore the jungle."