Unabated smuggling of medicinal plants in Sukhnaag range is causing a loss of crores of rupees to the state.
Reports said the summuglers have succeeded in puldering medicinal herbs in the Sukhnaag range of Dudhpathri from the compartment S7, S9, S11 and S14. The value of these herbs, according to experts, in the international market is worth crores.
Since the concerned have not made any effective attempt under the provisions of law to stop the smuggling of these herbs and thus the big area commonly known as Toos Maidan was looted within no time by the smugglers.
“Now the sumgglers are moving to Compartment D-31 S3 as it possesses medicinal herbs in large number with different species, yet authorities seem not so much serious about the issue. The past record track has exposed the non-seriousness and lack of will of the authorities. How can you expect them to exercise their authority against the smugglers if they’re the major beneficiaries of the whole process”, said a local resident.
“However, it does not mean that the authorities are not doing anything”, he said.
“Smugglers don’t directly come or send their men for the collection of these herbs but they engage common villager women and children. This makes our job difficult. Seven cases have been registered against smugglers and one vehicle with one quintal of Dicekoreen was seized during past thirty days.”
He said the herbs can be protected by taking the elderly people of nearby villages into confidence. “We have launched the JANGAL BACHAO MUHIM. Forest officials and commoners work together to make this mission a success”, he said.
He said the higher authorities have been urged to invite tenders for extraction of the herbs.
The state has to wake up before it is too late. The medicinal plants need to be protected and preserved. These plants can change bring the state on the economic map of the world.