The Forest Department launched a massive raid in Tulashipur under the Nimapara block of Puri district, targeting six illegal sawmills operating in the area.
Acting on a tip-off, officials swiftly organised simultaneous raids on the sawmills. They discovered that the mills had been cutting timber illegally from forest areas for commercial gain. Consequently, the department seized timber and machinery worth lakhs of rupees.
A large team of forest officials reached the spot and immediately confiscated equipment, including cutting machines, belts, and other tools. Moreover, they seized several truckloads of timber. Authorities later estimated the value of the seized materials to be in lakhs.
During the raid, officials questioned the owners and workers present at the sawmills. In addition, they took vehicles, including tractors used to transport timber, into custody.
Local residents praised the Forest Department’s decisive action. They pointed out that the illegal timber trade had been flourishing in the region for a long time. As a result, the crackdown received strong support from the community.
Finally, the department confirmed that such raids will continue in order to curb illegal logging and protect forest resources. This operation marked a significant step toward strengthening forest conservation efforts in Odisha.
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