To check illegal felling of trees, Himachal govt puts curbs on sale of this machine

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SHIMLA: To combat illegal tree felling, the Himachal Pradesh government has taken a strict stance by introducing mandatory licensing for chainsaw purchases.
The move aims to regulate the use of chainsaws, widely used in rural areas for domestic and agricultural purposes, and prevent their misuse in forested regions.
The Forest Department has announced that licences for chainsaws will be issued based on their horsepower. Discussions are underway to exempt smaller, low-powered chainsaws from the licensing requirement. The new regulation is expected to play a significant role in curbing unauthorised logging activities.

Chainsaws: A double-edged tool

Chainsaws are commonly used by farmers and orchardists in rural Himachal for pruning thick shrubs or cutting firewood. However, their efficiency has also led to their misuse, with some individuals using high-powered chainsaws to fell trees illegally in forests.
These logs are then easily transported via improved road networks, exacerbating deforestation and harming the environment.
Under the new rules, the Forest Department will enforce strict penalties for the unlicensed use of chainsaws, including confiscation of the equipment and fines.
A special campaign will also be launched to identify the number of chainsaws currently in use across the state. Owners will be required to report their chainsaws to the local Divisional Forest Officer (DFO).

Forests at risk amid unauthorised use

The rapid and unauthorised use of chainsaws has significantly contributed to the depletion of forest cover in Himachal Pradesh.
The state government’s initiative seeks to strike a balance between the legitimate needs of rural communities and the protection of its forests.
The government move comes amid allegations of illegal felling in Dharampur constituency in Mandi district, with the BJP accusing a ruling party leader of being behind it.

Sunil Chadda

Sunil Chadda

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