Assam: Kanchijan forest in Tinsukia faces deforestation due to alleged timber smuggling, forest dept refutes claim

Kanchijan Forest near Dumduma in Tinsukia district is facing an environmental crisis due to alleged indiscriminate deforestation, raising concerns about the delicate balance between conservation and development. The Hollung tree has become a victim of the ruthless exploitation of the forest's resources.

Allegations have surfaced, pointing fingers at rampant deforestation being carried out with the tacit approval of the forest department. The precious and massive Holung trees, integral to the Moran community's heritage, have fallen prey to the relentless chain of chainsaws.

Hundreds of majestic Holung trees, each a symbol of environmental richness and cultural significance, have been mercilessly felled and transformed into woods.

Speaking to India Today NE, a forest official from Kanchijan Forest stated that the woods have been seized and are currently under the custody of the forest department. They are being safeguarded with protective measures. The official stated that the news and allegations regarding their involvement in deforestation are false and baseless. In fact, they have taken proactive steps by seizing the wood and keeping it under their custody. The forest department is maintaining records and documentation, with all officials well aware of the situation. Any suggestion of illegal practices by the department is categorically denied as untrue.

The Chhatra Mukti Sangram Samiti and the Moran Students' Union have come forward, echoing the concerns of many, and have alleged that the devastation was done under the leadership of an assistant regional forest officer with the title Khan. The Kakopathar regional forest department, under Dumduma forest division, now finds itself under scrutiny as citizens demand a thorough investigation into the alleged complicity of officials in this environmental catastrophe.