Ludhiana: Around ten fully grown trees were illegally cut near Ghuman Chowk in Sudhar on the Ludhiana-Bathinda highway, adjoining a petrol pump, late Thursday night. The felled trees were reportedly loaded onto tractor-trolleys and taken to an undisclosed location, prompting immediate action from the forest department.
Forest Officials Launch Inquiry
District Forest Officer (DFO) Rajesh Kumar Gulati ordered strict legal action and formed an inquiry team. The team includes Block Forest Officer Pargat Singh, Harnit Kaur, and Forest Guard Davinderpal Kaur. They have recorded statements from local residents to trace the perpetrators.
Police Involvement and Investigation Status
Sudhar Station House Officer (SHO) Inspector Gurdeep Singh confirmed receipt of a written complaint from the forest department. He assured that action will be taken “no matter how influential the accused may be,” signalling firm intent to hold the culprits accountable.
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Petrol Pump Manager and CCTV Footage
When approached, the petrol pump manager refused to share CCTV footage, directing officials to coordinate with the owner. Investigators are reviewing alternative evidence to establish the chain of events leading to the tree felling.
Environmental Concerns Raised
Environmentalist Sheetal Prakash condemned the incident, warning that unchecked tree felling causes “irreparable environmental damage.” She urged authorities to ensure exemplary punishment for those responsible, highlighting the broader threat to local ecology.
