SRINAGAR: Unabated timber smuggling in the forests of Humpathri Damhal Hanjipora area in south kashmir’s Kulgam district has taken a heavy toll on the green gold of the area, with the authorities looking as mute spectators.

Locals said that the forests are hidden from the eyes of the department, giving the smugglers a free pass.

According to locals, forest trees were cut down in compartment No 17 in Hampathri area of DH Pora.

 “Forest department officials never bothered to visit the spot for checking," locals alleged.

According to them, looting of forests is going on day in and day out and the forest department is not doing anything to stop this looting.  Some are seen carrying axes and some going into forest areas at dusk, trying to destroy trees.

 Meanwhile, on being contacted by CNS, DFO Kulgam, Syed Waseem Gul said that a FIR has been registered against the people involved in this act.

 “We are committed to protect our forests.The Quick Response Team (QRT) of Block Range visited the spot and strict action will be taken against those who are found guilty," DFO assured. (CNS)