Pulpally: A Vigilance probe has unearthed that the felling of trees in Irulam forest in Wayanad district was carried out without proper authorisation.

The investigation, led by Kozhikode Divisional Forest Officer VP Jayaprakash, revealed that those involved forged evidence to create the impression that the felling complied with all legal formalities.

A report recommending action against the accountable officials has been submitted to the Additional Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) by the investigation team. 

The report pointed out ‘negligence of duty’ by  eight officials, including the Range Officer in charge of Chethalath Range, the Irulam Deputy Forest Range Officer and the Section Forest Officer.

The report also highlighted following serious discrepancies:

  • Mandates were not followed during the tree felling inside the forest.
  • The report seeking approval for the felling of trees was submitted to higher authorities only after the incident sparked controversy.
  • Although an attempt to file a case was initiated as a damage control measure, it was not pursued.

What happened

Two months ago, five teak trees worth lakhs were felled and smuggled. The required special approval from the CCF was not obtained. The involved officials initially claimed that the trees were felled to construct a forest outpost at Moonnanakuzhy on Pulpally-Bathery Road. However, the documents related to the estimate and approval did not mention anything about the cutting of trees. Also, outposts are not typically constructed using teak wood. 

It is noteworthy that the alleged illegal activity was brought to the attention of the authorities by a news story in Mathrubhumi Daily.