Dibrugarh: Illegal tree felling has allegedly continued for several months in the Aithan-Bogibeel area of Dibrugarh, triggering concerns among residents and environmentalists over the loss of green cover and the effectiveness of forest protection measures.
Local sources have alleged that a timber network is operating in the area, with trees reportedly being cut down and logs transported to nearby sawmills for processing into finished timber products.
The alleged scale and continuity of the activity have raised questions over how tree felling and the movement of timber could continue for an extended period without effective intervention from the authorities.
Environmentalists and local residents have expressed concern that continued loss of tree cover could affect Dibrugarh’s ecological balance, particularly amid growing concerns over rising temperatures and changing weather patterns.
Some sources have also alleged that a section of forest officials may be facilitating the illegal felling and transportation of timber. However, these allegations have not been independently verified.
If established, the alleged involvement of government personnel would raise serious questions about the functioning of the forest protection system and call for a detailed investigation into the entire timber supply chain.
An environmentalist said the loss of trees could further worsen the impact of rising temperatures in Dibrugarh and surrounding areas.
“Dibrugarh was once known for its cool climate, but the city is getting hotter with every passing year. Global warming is already affecting the region, and deforestation is one of the major factors contributing to rising temperatures and environmental degradation,” the environmentalist said.
Environmental experts note that tree cover helps regulate local temperatures, maintain air quality, retain soil moisture and support biodiversity. Continued deforestation could therefore have wider ecological consequences beyond the immediate locations where trees are being felled.
The alleged timber trade has also raised questions about monitoring the transportation and processing of timber. Environmentalists have questioned how large logs could reportedly be moved from the area to sawmills without attracting the attention of the authorities.
They have called for an investigation covering the entire chain of alleged illegal activity, including tree felling, transportation, sawmill processing and the sale of timber.
Environmentalists and concerned residents have urged the authorities to conduct an impartial inquiry into the alleged tree felling in Aithan Geman land. They have called for verification of the source of timber reaching local sawmills and investigation into whether any officials or other government personnel assisted the alleged operation.
They said strict action should follow if the allegations are substantiated.
With Dibrugarh already facing concerns over increasing temperatures and environmental degradation, the alleged continued destruction of tree cover has intensified calls for stronger monitoring and protection of the region’s remaining green spaces.