KATHUA, JANUARY 28: The Forest Department Kathua foiled an attempt to smuggle Khair wood (Acacia catechu) during a late-night enforcement operation in the district.
During the operation conducted on January 27, 2026, at about 11:55 PM, a Tata Yodha Load Carrier bearing Registration No. JK08L-1637 was intercepted near village Rouri, Sahar Panchayat, by the Block Officer, Budhi Block, along with field staff. On inspection, the vehicle was found carrying 15 billets of Khair Wood (Acacia catechu) being transported in violation of forest laws.
The vehicle, as per an official statement, was seized under Sections 52(1) and 52(2) of the Indian Forest Act, 1927 for violation of Sections 41, 41-A and 42 of the Act, besides violation of SRO 111 of 2016.
The seizure was carried out under the close supervision of the Range Officer, Kathua, Neetan Khajuria and under the overall guidance of Divisional Forest Officer, Ankit Sinha. The seized vehicle along with the illicit forest produce was taken into custody at the Forest Complex, Kathua and further legal action is being initiated as per the provisions of the Indian Forest Act, 1927 and other relevant laws.
Meanwhile, the Forest Department lauded the proactive and coordinated role of the Revenue Department, Police Department and Forest Protection Force, whose joint efforts have significantly strengthened forest protection measures and curbed the menace of smuggling of Khairwood and other forest produce in Kathua district.
The Forest Department Kathua has appealed to the general public to cooperate by promptly reporting any instances of illegal felling, smuggling or transportation of forest produce.
