Dhubri, Assam: Forest authorities in Assam’s Dhubri district have successfully dismantled a sophisticated, movable band saw mill operating under the radar in Boalkamri Part II, falling under the Nayarhat Police Out Post. This significant bust underscores a renewed push against illicit timber operations in the region.
The operation was initiated following a confidential tip-off received by the Dhubri Forest Division. Under the direct supervision of the newly appointed Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Golap Kumar Bania, a dedicated team swung into action. The raid was spearheaded by Sahabaz Sultan, who is In-Charge of the Sapatgram Forest Depot, leading to the swift apprehension of the illegal unit.
Officials discovered the illicit sawmill cleverly mounted on a hand-cart, a design that allowed it to be easily relocated and avoid detection. At the time of the raid, the mill was actively engaged in processing round logs without any legitimate permits. The entire setup was immediately dismantled and its components seized. Sources privy to the investigation indicated that the mobile sawmill had been functioning clandestinely for a considerable period, significantly undermining forest conservation initiatives in the area.
This dismantling operation marks a substantial setback for the supply chain of illegally procured timber. It also stands as the first major enforcement action led by DFO Bania since assuming his new role, signaling his firm commitment to a zero-tolerance stance against illegal forest activities.
Further investigations are actively underway, with forest officials anticipating more targeted operations in the coming days. This latest action is part of a broader, intensified crackdown on timber smuggling and other associated unlawful practices threatening the ecological balance of Assam’s forests.
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