Illicit Feeling of Trees Under Different Districts of Tripura

Introduction: Tripura, a lush green state in Northeast India, is home to diverse flora and fauna. However, the illicit feeling of trees —the unauthorized cutting, smuggling, and destruction of forests—has become a growing concern across various districts. This illegal activity threatens biodiversity, disrupts ecological balance, and impacts local communities dependent on forest resources.  

District-Wise Overview of Illicit Tree Feeling:

West Tripura: Urban Expansion vs. Green Cover. West Tripura, being the most urbanized district, faces rapid deforestation due to infrastructure development Illegal logging is often reported near Agartala and its outskirts, where land is cleared for construction projects.  

Sepahijala: Encroachment and Timber Smuggling. Sepahijala, known for its wildlife sanctuary, has witnessed rampant timber smuggling. Encroachment into forested areas for agricultural expansion has led to the loss of valuable tree species like Sal and Teak.  

Gomati: Commercial Exploitation of Forests

Gomati district, rich in forest reserves, suffers from illegal commercial logging. The demand for high-quality timber has encouraged unauthorized tree felling, particularly in the Amarpur and Udaipur regions.  

Dhalai: Tribal Land and Forest Degradation. Dhalai, a tribal-dominated district, faces forest degradation due to shifting cultivation (Jhum farming) While traditional farming methods are sustainable, excessive tree cutting for agricultural purposes has led to soil erosion and habitat destruction.  

North Tripura: Cross-Border Timber Trade. 

North Tripura, bordering Mizoram and Assam, is a hotspot for cross-border timber smuggling Illegal traders exploit weak enforcement mechanisms, transporting valuable wood species beyond state boundaries.  

South Tripura: Unregulated Logging in Reserved Forests 

South Tripura, home to dense forests, has seen unregulated logging in reserved forest areas. The lack of strict monitoring allows illegal wood extraction, affecting the region’s biodiversity.  


Impact of Illicit Tree Feeling

1. Loss of Biodiversity:  Endangered species lose their habitat.  

2. Climate Change Acceleration: Deforestation contributes to rising temperatures.  

3. Soil Erosion and Water Scarcity: Tree loss affects soil stability and groundwater levels.  

4. Livelihood Disruption: Indigenous communities dependent on forests suffer economically.  

Conclusion: Need for Conservation Measures  

To combat illicit tree feeling, strict enforcement of forest laws, community participation, and sustainable afforestation programs are essential. Tripura’s rich greenery must be preserved to maintain ecological balance and ensure a sustainable future.  


Sources: The Hindu Newspaper/ Other Domestic Newspaper

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