Karkala: An alleged attempt to illegally cut and transport valuable trees from Kumki land in the reserve forest near Mutlupadi Padu Darkhasu, within the Kudremukh National Park limits, was foiled after local residents objected to the activity. More than nine large trees, estimated to be worth over ₹10 lakh, had reportedly been felled when the alleged perpetrators attempted to transport the timber using a lorry and crane.
More than nine trees allegedly felled
The incident was reported from the Mutlupadi Padu Darkhasu area of Karkala. According to the report, the trees were cut from Kumki land located in the reserve forest area.
The felled trees reportedly included Kiralu Bogi, also known as Malabar ironwood, and Hebbalasu, or wild jackfruit. The trees were described as large-sized, with their combined value estimated at more than ₹10 lakh.
The alleged offenders had reportedly cut the trees and made preparations to transport the timber from the forest area.
Lorry and crane allegedly used to move timber
According to local residents, the timber was being loaded for transportation with the assistance of a crane and lorry.
However, residents noticed the activity and objected to the transportation of the felled trees. The people involved allegedly did not possess documents authorising the cutting and transportation of the timber.
Following the objections, those allegedly involved abandoned the cut trees and fled from the spot.
The incident reportedly occurred around 50 metres from an Anti-Poaching Camp, according to local residents.
Forest officials seize felled timber
Photographs of the felled trees subsequently circulated on social media, drawing the attention of Forest Department officials.
Forest officials visited the location after the photographs emerged and seized the timber found at the site.
The seizure is part of the department’s response as officials investigate the alleged unauthorised felling and attempted transportation of the trees from the protected forest area.
CCTV footage helps investigation
Karkala Range Forest Officer Arun said officials had obtained information about the vehicles allegedly used in the attempted transportation of the timber.
According to the RFO, CCTV footage is being examined and information about the lorries and cranes involved has already been obtained.
He said a case would be registered and appropriate action would be taken against those responsible.
Forest protection concerns
The incident has raised concerns over attempts to illegally fell valuable trees in forest areas, particularly within the wider Kudremukh National Park landscape.
The reported presence of an Anti-Poaching Camp close to the location also highlights the importance of continued surveillance in forest areas vulnerable to illegal activities.
Forest officials are expected to proceed with the investigation based on the available CCTV footage and other evidence. The identities and roles of those allegedly involved will be established as the inquiry progresses.
The seizure of the timber has prevented the alleged offenders from transporting the felled trees from the area, while the Forest Department’s investigation is expected to determine the circumstances surrounding the tree felling and attempted removal.