Forest raids seize illegal timber, bust sawmill in BTC

KOKRAJHAR, July 3, 2026 — The Forest Department has intensified its crackdown on illegal logging and timber trade in the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), conducting coordinated raids in Kokrajhar and Chirang districts that resulted in the seizure of illegal timber, the detection of an illegal sawmill, and the confiscation of illegally stored furniture.

Acting on specific intelligence, a joint team from the Gossaigaon Forest Depot and Consolidation Range under the Kachugaon Forest Division raided Kurshakati No. 2 Revenue Village in Kokrajhar district. The team seized a large quantity of illegally felled Jia Poma logs, which were transported to the Gossaigaon Forest Depot pending legal proceedings.

In Chirang district, officials from the Basugaon Forest Depot raided Bhutiapara and detected an illegally operating sawmill. The team also seized illegal timber and dismantled an unauthorised timber shop operating in the area.

In a separate operation, staff of the Chirang Amteka Range Office raided a premises in Joypur and seized a quantity of furniture that was allegedly stored without valid permits or legal documentation. Legal action has been initiated under the Assam Forest Regulation and other applicable laws.

Forest officials said the operations are part of an ongoing campaign against illegal felling, unauthorised timber transportation and forest-related offences. Intelligence-based raids, surprise inspections and enforcement drives will continue in vulnerable areas to protect forest resources.

The department has appealed to the public to report illegal felling, transportation, storage or trade of forest produce, warning that strict legal action will be taken against violators.

"The Forest Department has intensified its action against illegal tree felling and unauthorised sawmills across the region. Necessary measures are being taken to conserve forest resources in the districts," a senior forest official in Kokrajhar said.