the forests in the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh may soon be turned into a graveyard of stumps if immediate steps are not taken to contain the illegal felling of trees. It has come to the notice of the state government that organised mafia gangs were operating on a large scale in the region and smuggling timber across the border to Nepal. Saw mills installed on the other side of the border are doing brisk business by selling sawn timber to local markets in Nepal and even to China. The state government has approached the Centre to initiate a dialogue on this critical issue with the Nepalese government. At the same time, it has drawn up plans for the protection of the 416 km-long forest.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.