Forest Department Cracks Down on Illegal Tree Felling in Hastinapur Sanctuary

The forest department's intensified efforts against illegal deforestation yielded results with the arrest of a gang involved in felling khair trees in the Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary, as reported by officials on Tuesday.

Lokesh, Aditya, and Sittu, from Amroha, along with Meerut resident Ali Hasan, were apprehended following a tip-off regarding their activities in Arjun and Draupadi forest blocks.

Authorities confiscated woodcutting tools from the suspects, who are believed to operate in forests across numerous districts. Divisional Forest Officer Vandana emphasized that illegal deforestation and wildlife poaching are major offenses, warning that violators will face stringent legal consequences.