Forest Department Intercepts Truck Smuggling Tons of Green Timber on National Highway

Halena, Bharatpur. In a significant crackdown on illegal timber smuggling, the forest department successfully intercepted a truck loaded with approximately 2.5 tons of green wood on the Jaipur-National Highway 21. The operation, which unfolded near the Maloni bridge over the Banganga River, targeted a vehicle allegedly transporting the illicit cargo from Sikandra in Dausa district toward Aligarh in Uttar Pradesh.

The incident began late Thursday night when officials received a tip-off regarding a suspicious vehicle moving toward Bharatpur. Upon spotting the truck at the Amoli toll plaza, the team attempted to conduct a routine search. However, the driver chose to ignore the blockade, leading to a tense pursuit along the highway. The suspects eventually abandoned the vehicle near a hotel close to the river bridge and fled the scene on foot.

Forest officials conducted a thorough search of the area and discovered the driver and his assistant attempting to evade capture by hiding in a nearby tree. The individuals, identified as Saurabh Meena and Murari Meena, were unable to produce any valid documentation for the timber found in their possession. Both were subsequently taken into custody and processed under the provisions of the Forest Act.

This seizure is part of a broader, intensified campaign directed by Deputy Conservator of Forests P. Balamurugan to curb illegal mining and forest-related crimes in the region. Since the establishment of the new forest range office at Dahra Mod, the department has been highly active, collecting over 7.15 lakh rupees in fines within just 25 days. The recent crackdown has included the confiscation of multiple trucks and tractors involved in illegal activities.

The operation involved a dedicated team of forest guards and officials who have been working to disrupt the supply chains of local timber mafias. Authorities confirmed that the seized truck has been impounded at the range office, and further investigations are underway to determine the extent of the smuggling network. The department remains committed to maintaining strict vigilance across the district to protect forest resources from exploitation.