By TC News Desk
Agartala, 16th November 2024 : The Ambassa Forest department has achieved significant success in combating timber smuggling seizing approximately Rs 3 crore worth of stolen timber in the last three months. This accomplishment comes after Jagat Debbarma recently took charge as the forest ranger. However, the department is grappling with a severe staff shortage which hampers their operations.
Speaking to media personnel, Forest Ranger Jagat Debbarma shared the department’s achievements and challenges. “In the last three months, we have seized twenty vehicles carrying stolen timber, valued at about Rs 2 crore 80 lakh. The value of the twenty vehicles is around Rs two crore, and the stolen timber in these vehicles is worth about Rs 80 lakh,” he said.
Despite these successes, the department faces significant hurdles. “We have a shortage of staff in our office, and there are also problems with vehicles. This makes it challenging to conduct operations against timber smugglers,” Debbarma explained. He emphasized that the department’s achievements are due to the relentless efforts of all the staff at the Ambassa Range Office and the Beat Officers.
Debbarma expressed hope that if the staff and vehicle shortages are addressed, the department will be able to take stronger action against smugglers and achieve even greater success. “We are committed to continuing our campaign against timber smugglers, and with adequate resources, we can make a more significant impact,” he stated.
The Ambassa Forest Department’s efforts have been commendable, but the need for additional resources is crucial to sustain and enhance their operations. The local community and authorities are urged to support the department in addressing these challenges to ensure the protection of the region’s valuable forest resources.
