The Maidalpur Forest Division in Nabarangpur district seized an unregistered tractor and arrested two individuals for clearing protected forest land for agricultural purposes.
The incident occurred in the Barli Reserved Forest under Dabugaon Range, where unauthorised tree felling had been reported.
According to Forest Officer Madhusudan Patra, the accused, identified as Bana Jani and Minu Jani from Sagajaba village, were apprehended and later released on bail. The raid, conducted late Thursday night at the forest near Gunduriguda village, uncovered approximately 15 hectares of forest land that had been cleared for farming. A team of forest officials, including Basant Nayak, Madhusmita Tripathy, and others, participated in the operation.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to preserving forest resources and taking strict action against illegal encroachments.
