Bhubaneswar, April 17: The Odisha Vigilance Directorate's Forest Wing launched a major raid today on two illegal sawmills operating on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar, seizing equipment, a vehicle, and timber valued at Rs 19 lakh. Following specific intelligence, vigilance teams targeted the villages of Olarabindha and Ichadeipatna, under Balianta Police Station in Khordha district. During the operation, officials confiscated sawmill machinery, one vehicle, and 11 cubic feet of premium timber, all valued at Rs 19,00,000. Both sawmills were operating without the necessary licenses, violating Section 4 of The Orissa Sawmill and Sawpit (Control) Act, 1991. Two forest-related cases have been registered under UD Case No. 2BL and 3BL of 2025-26 within the Balipatna Range of Khordha Forest Division. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the source of the timber and identify the individuals behind the illegal sawmills. This raid highlights the state government's continued efforts to combat illegal logging and protect Odisha's diminishing forest resources. Authorities have urged the public to report any similar violations, reinforcing their commitment to fighting forest crimes.
