In a significant operation against illegal logging, the Forest Department seized a consignment of Padauk sawn timber from the Reserve Forest near Bada Pather Ghum, in the Mile Tilak area. The operation, led by Abdul Rehman T., Forest Guard and Beat Officer of Mile Tilak, uncovered 12 pieces of sawn Padauk timber, collectively measuring 0.488 cubic meters.
The timber, a protected and highly valuable hardwood species native to the Andaman Islands, was found without proper documentation in a reserved forest zone, raising serious concerns over ongoing illegal timber activities. The seizure took place following credible intelligence received by the department.
Accompanying Abdul Rehman on the raid were forest personnel Deepak Roy (RPSM), Saw Towplowpaw (RPSM), Saw Thasay (RPSM), Jairam Kerketta (RPSM), and O. Mohammed Abdul Aziz (RPSM). The team located and secured the timber, which was concealed within forested terrain, suggesting an attempt to avoid detection during transport.
Authorities have registered a Forest Offence Case under the Indian Forest Act, 1972, and the Andaman and Nicobar Forest Transit Pass Rules, 1966, against unknown individuals. As of now, the offenders remain unidentified. However, a probe is underway to trace the network and origins of this illegal activity, which includes examining the backward linkages that facilitated the timber extraction and transport.
Padauk wood, known for its rich red hue and durability, is in high demand for furniture and construction, making it a frequent target for unlawful logging. Forest officials believe the seized timber was likely intended for unauthorized trade, bypassing forest clearance norms and posing a threat to the fragile ecosystem of the region.
This incident adds to a series of similar violations reported from protected forest areas across the islands, drawing attention to the growing need for stricter surveillance and stronger deterrents. It remains unclear whether this particular area had been flagged in the past for such activities.
The operation was conducted under the supervision of the Range Officer of the Jirkatang Range. The Forest Department has reiterated its appeal to the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to illegal extraction or transport of forest resources.
Residents can report such incidents by calling the Forest Department’s helpline number 03192-255228. The department has assured that all informants’ identities will be kept strictly confidential.
