Joint Operation Foils Walnut Tree Felling in Handwara

Handwara, Dec,20:The Revenue Department Handwara, with the immediate support of Handwara Police, has taken swift action against the illegal felling of protected walnut trees on State land in the Haran area of Handwara.

Acting on specific information, the Revenue team conducted a night operation and found nearly six walnut trees illegally cut. During verification, part of the felled wood was recovered from the spot, while the remaining timber, which had been transported and concealed in the Chowgal area, was later seized with police assistance.

The seized material has been taken into custody and legal proceedings have been initiated against the violators under relevant laws. The administration reiterated that walnut trees are protected under law and any unauthorized felling will attract strict legal action.

While talking to HEADLINES TODAY Tehsildar Handwara, Zeeshan Khan (JKAS), said that more than five illegally felled walnut trees have been confiscated during the past three weeks, underscoring the administration’s zero-tolerance policy towards environmental violations. he said

"Illegal felling of walnut trees is a serious offence under government rules, as walnut trees are protected by law in Jammu & Kashmir. Such acts cause irreversible environmental damage and disturb ecological balance, as these trees take decades to mature. Unauthorised cutting, whether on private or State land, invites strict legal action, including seizure of timber, heavy fines, and prosecution. The government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against such environmental violations."

The action has been appreciated by local residents, who welcomed the firm steps taken to protect public property and preserve ecological balance.