By TC News Desk
Agartala, 23rd January 2025: The Longai Valley is witnessing an alarming surge in forest resource smuggling, leading to the brink of wildlife extinction. Illegal activities have decimated forest resources, driving wildlife from their natural habitats and making them easy targets for poachers. Allegations have surfaced that forest officials are colluding with smugglers, exacerbating the crisis and leading to the progressive depletion of the forest area.
The deteriorating condition of the deep forest has forced wildlife to descend to the plains in search of food. This migration has tragically made them easy prey for poachers. Once teeming with wildlife, Longai Valley now presents a stark contrast, with the once-abundant animal and bird populations dwindling rapidly.
Poachers are reportedly transporting hunted animals to neighboring markets in Assam, Mizoram, Dharmanagar, Panisagar, and Rowa. The vibrant scene of colorful birds and flocks of sandpipers seen a decade ago has faded into near extinction. Deer, wild boars, and rabbits, once common sights, have also become rare due to relentless over-hunting.
Local residents have expressed their concerns about the lack of action from the forest department. “It is heartbreaking to see the once-thriving wildlife disappear,” said a local conservationist. Shockingly, there are allegations of complicity between a faction of unscrupulous forest department employees and the poachers, further aggravating the problem.
The destruction of the Longai Valley protected forest area due to this collusion is a matter of grave concern. Immediate and stringent measures are needed to curb forest resource smuggling and protect the remaining wildlife before it’s too late.
