Rampant illegal logging sparks environmental alarm in north Kashmir’s Langate

Kupwara, July 22: In what is being described as a serious environmental breach, vast stretches of forest land in the Langate Forest Division have been ravaged by illegal tree felling and wanton destruction of saplings, triggering alarm among environmentalists and locals alike.

The incident, reported from Compartment No. 1/2 in Rajwar and Compartment No. 1/A in Mawar’s Gund Chobtara block of Qaziabad, has left behind a grim trail of severed trunks, stripped bark, and uprooted saplings; painting a disturbing picture of ecological vandalism.

Eyewitnesses and local residents allege that dozens of mature trees have been axed, and the bark of several standing trees peeled off in a manner that ensures their slow death. Even more concerning, hundreds of young saplings, considered vital for the region’s future forest cover have been destroyed.

Locals have squarely blamed the forest department for what they call “complete administrative failure.” They allege that despite repeated alerts from concerned citizens, no preventive measures were taken by the authorities, allowing the damage to spiral unchecked.

“It is a disaster in the making,” said Dr Shaikh Owais, a local research scholar and environmental activist.

“We’re already witnessing climate irregularities. If these forests are not protected now, the impact on water resources, agriculture, and air quality will be devastating in the years ahead.”

The damage has not gone unnoticed. Public resentment has been mounting, with calls for accountability growing louder. Civil society organisations across North Kashmir have condemned the incident and demanded strict action.

Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Langate while talking to Greater Kashmir confirmed that a departmental team has been dispatched to carry out a ground-level assessment of the affected areas.

“We’ve taken note of the complaints and a detailed report is being prepared. Anyone found involved, whether locals or departmental staff; will face action under the Forest Act and relevant service rules,” the DFO told GreaterKashmir.

He also appealed to the public to aid the department in identifying those involved in the felling.

“Protecting the forests is not just the responsibility of the Forest Department. Community participation is essential to ensure long-term conservation,” he added.

Sources within the department said formal cases have been registered at both Rajwar and Mawar, and investigations are underway.

Meanwhile, the Civil Society Forum Kashmir has called for a high-level probe and demanded that officers under whose jurisdiction the destruction occurred be held accountable.

“Forests are a public asset. Their protection is non-negotiable,” the forum said in a statement.

The incident has once again brought into focus the fragile condition of Kashmir’s forests and the growing need for robust safeguards. Environmentalists are urging authorities to strengthen on-ground surveillance, increase community engagement, and implement forest protection laws without delay.