In a major anti-forest crime operation, the Forest Wing of the Odisha Vigilance Directorate today raided two fully operational illegal sawmills on the outskirts of the state capital, seizing equipment, a vehicle, and valuable timber worth Rs 19 lakh.
Acting swiftly on specific intelligence, vigilance teams targeted the villages of Olarabindha and Ichadeipatna under Balianta Police Station in Khordha district. During the joint raid, officials recovered sawmill machinery, one vehicle, and 11 cubic feet of premium timber valued at Rs 19,00,000. Both units were running without any valid licence, in clear violation of Section 4 of The Orissa Sawmill and Sawpit (Control) Act, 1991.
Two forest cases have been registered — UD Case No. 2BL and 3BL of 2025-26 — under the Balipatna Range of Khordha Forest Division. Investigations are underway to trace the source of the timber and the operators behind the illegal operations.
The operation underscores the state government’s firm commitment to curbing illegal logging and protecting Odisha’s dwindling forest cover. Authorities have urged the public to share any information about similar violations, reinforcing that forest crimes will not be tolerated.
