Kishtwar, April 22:
In a significant move to check illegal felling of trees and timber smuggling, the District Magistrate Kishtwar, Pankaj Kumar Sharma, has imposed a blanket prohibition on the illegal use, sale, and possession of portable chain saws (mechanical cutters) across the district.
The order, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, follows reports from the Forest Department highlighting extensive damage being caused in forest areas due to the rampant use of such machinery by timber smugglers.
According to the order, the unregulated use of portable chain saws has been facilitating organized timber smuggling, illegal extraction of forest produce, and ecological degradation, posing serious threats to biodiversity as well as public order.
Citing provisions of the Indian Forest Act 1927, the District Magistrate noted that such activities are in clear violation of forest laws and contribute to unlawful trade networks and environmental damage.
Key Directions Issued:
* No individual shall use, operate, possess, or keep portable chain saws without prior permission from the competent authority.
* All persons currently in possession of such equipment must declare and register them with the concerned SHO or Divisional Forest Officer within seven days. Failure to do so will render possession illegal.
* Sale, transfer, or lease of such machinery without permission has been strictly prohibited.
* Police and Forest officials have been directed to conduct regular inspections and enforcement drives to prevent misuse.
The order further states that any equipment found in violation will be seized and may be confiscated under Section 52 of the Indian Forest Act, with offenders facing legal action under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023 and other applicable laws.
The Senior Superintendent of Police Kishtwar and Divisional Forest Officers of Kishtwar, Doda, and Marwah have been tasked with ensuring strict enforcement of the order, including launching special drives and initiating legal proceedings against violators.
The order has been issued ex parte in view of the urgency of the situation and will come into immediate effect. It shall remain in force for a period of two months unless modified or withdrawn earlier.
Officials stated that the step is aimed at safeguarding forest resources, maintaining ecological balance, and curbing illegal activities linked to timber smuggling in the district.
