Rajewadi: An incident of illegal transportation and storage of teak trees without any permission from the Gram Panchayat has come to light in Rajewadi, taluka Ambegaon. The incident has raised serious environmental concerns, prompting demands for a thorough investigation into the unlawful wood cutting.
Though the precise location of the tree felling remains undisclosed, it is suspected that teak trees might have been illegally felled in the areas neighboring Rajewadi, near the villages of Koltawade, Mapoli, and Dimbhe. The illicitly obtained teak wood is then being transported and deposited in the Rajewadi region, where unauthorized tree cutting continues unabated, with individuals reportedly using electricity connections from Mahavitaran poles to carry out their unlawful activities.
The Gram Panchayat of Rajewadi has taken a stand against this flagrant violation of environmental norms and has demanded a thorough inquiry into the matter. The village panchayat officials have asserted that the individual or contractor responsible for this activity has failed to seek any permission from the Gram Panchayat for the storage or cutting of the teak wood. Given the severe ecological damage caused by the felling of trees, the local Forest Department has also raised questions about this disturbing incident.
Rajewadi Gram Panchayat is classified under the pesa area, which mandates obtaining permission from both the Forest Department and the Gram Panchayat for transportation activities. However, it has been revealed that no permission was sought from the Gram Panchayat, further highlighting the blatant disregard for legal procedures.
The Sarpanch of Rajewadi, Shubhangi Sable, has promptly corresponded with the Tehsildar, Police, Collector, and Forest Department, urging them to take strict action against the culprits responsible for this illegal activity. Authorities have assured that a necessary inquiry will be conducted, and appropriate action will be taken in response to this grave violation.
