The Assam government has launched a statewide enforcement drive to eliminate illegal sawmills and curb illegal logging. Following directions from Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah announced that the Forest Department has started the campaign in “mission mode.”
Accordingly, the government aims to identify, seize, and permanently close every unlicensed sawmill operating across Assam within a week.
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Forest Department Intensifies Enforcement
The Forest Department has instructed Divisional Forest Officers (DFOs), Range Officers, and field staff to conduct intensive inspections across every forest division.
Meanwhile, enforcement teams have already started operations in remote and interior areas where illegal timber processing frequently takes place. During these inspections, officials will seize unlicensed sawmills, confiscate timber stocks, and document every action with geo-tagged photographs.
Additionally, officers must submit detailed daily reports so the department can closely monitor the campaign’s progress.
Authorities Also Inspect Licensed Sawmills
The government has expanded the drive to include licensed sawmills as well.
During the inspections, officials will verify licences and examine timber stocks. They will also check Transit Passes, GST invoices, e-Way Bills, and other mandatory documents to ensure complete compliance.
Furthermore, the department wants to prevent illegally sourced timber from entering the legal supply chain through licensed businesses.
Minister Holds Officials Accountable
Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah warned that every officer must strictly enforce forest laws.
According to the minister, any Range Officer or Divisional Forest Officer who allows illegal sawmills to operate in their jurisdiction will face departmental proceedings.
Therefore, officials must act promptly against violations and ensure strict compliance with environmental regulations.
Government Targets Illegal Timber Movement
The minister also expressed concern over reports of illegal timber moving from Goalpara across the Brahmaputra River to areas such as Baghbar.
Consequently, enforcement agencies have increased surveillance along key transport routes to intercept illegally harvested timber before it reaches processing units.
He said the government will not tolerate organised forest destruction or illegal timber trade under any circumstances.
Public Asked to Support the Campaign
Besides strengthening enforcement, the government has appealed to citizens to help protect Assam’s forests.
People can report illegal sawmills or share evidence through the confidential helpline 94352-04444.
Moreover, the minister urged residents to report any suspected collusion between government officials and sawmill operators. He assured the public that authorities would investigate every credible complaint and take strict action against those found guilty.
Forest Department Expands Monitoring
The Forest Department will now monitor the entire timber supply chain instead of focusing only on sawmills.
As a result, officials will inspect timber traders, transporters, businesses, and end users to verify that they possess valid documents for every timber consignment.
Anyone found using or transporting undocumented timber could face legal action under the applicable forest laws.
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Forest Protection
Finally, Jayanta Mallabaruah reaffirmed the Assam government’s commitment to protecting forests and conserving biodiversity.
He urged officials to carry out their responsibilities diligently while encouraging citizens to cooperate with enforcement agencies.
Together, the government and the public can help reduce illegal logging, protect Assam’s natural resources, and strengthen long-term forest conservation efforts.
