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Political patronage 'decimates' Khiram forests in Anantnag 2/10/2015 11:29:33 PM Saahil Suhail Early Times Report anantnag, Feb 10: Timber smugglers enjoying 'political patronage' have resorted to massive loot in dense Khiram forests by felling green trees illegally. Rampant smuggling is ruining forests at Pannad, 35 kilometers from here. The place is fast losing its glory and gifts of nature bestowed on it as the continuous loot of forests have not only left the green gold at stake, but has also damaged the habitat of wild animals. Few days ago, a group of local youth seized large quantity of timber in the forest and alarmed the Forest Department, but the department hasn't yet initiated action against the erring employees, who locals believe has nexus with the smugglers. "From past few months we suspected that outsiders have resorted to loot in our forests. In the morning we decided to inform the employees of the department but against our expectations we received cold shouldered response from the employees and they didn't initiate any action on our inputs," said Younis Khan, a resident. He said that he along with other young friends decided to visit the forest during which they seized the timber and witnessed the green loot. "A day after we seized the timber, we threatened us that they will implicate us in false cases." A visit to the areas lifts several curtains and the inside story is completely different and the 'worrisome' scenes of half cut trees and burnt stems is enough to describe the pace at which the timber smuggling is going on in the area. Locals blame political intervention for lack of action against the smugglers and erring employees. Meanwhile, while admitting that illegal felling of trees and smuggling has increased, an official said that a team has been sent to forest area for reporting damage. However, he affirmed that situation has now been brought under control. Wild Life Warden South Kashmir when contacted assured action swift against the smugglers.   Share This News with Your Friends on Social Network     Comment on this Story

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