Agartala, 3rd June 2026: Serious allegations have surfaced regarding the illegal sale of soil from forest department land near the Bokafa Forest Range Office. Reports indicate that certain individuals have been cutting down vegetation and excavating soil from the premises to sell openly, raising widespread concern among locals.
Previously, similar complaints had emerged from the Kalshi Dagai Chhara area under Bokafa Forest Division. At present, accusations are being directed against officials of the Santirbazar subdivision and the Bokafa Forest Range for failing to act against such activities. Despite shops and business establishments being constructed on forest land, no corrective measures have been taken. Notably, a medical store named Sen Medical Hall has been set up in front of South Tripura District Hospital on forest department property, while stalls have also been erected under municipal initiatives.
Locals allege that forest officials have long been complicit with mafias in illegal sand smuggling and tree felling. The current practice of soil excavation near the range office has intensified public outrage. Residents complain that trucks carrying soil have damaged roads adjacent to the police station, making daily travel difficult. With the onset of monsoon, the situation is expected to worsen, as broken roads will severely hinder movement, especially in emergencies.
Citizens are now demanding that the administration take strict and immediate action to stop the destruction of forest land and ensure accountability from the concerned officials.
