Forest officials seize trucks in illegal Kashmal root extraction crackdown

In a late-night operation on Sunday, forest officials in Churah subdivision of Chamba seized three trucks carrying 80 quintals of Kashmal (Berberis aristata) roots over the permitted limit. The trucks crossed the Salooni barrier illegally after sunset, violating forest regulations.

The operation, led by Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Sushil Kumar Guleria, revealed collusion between on-duty barrier staff and the truck operators. CCTV footage showed employees knowingly allowing the trucks to pass. A deputy ranger and a forest worker were issued show-cause notices for negligence and given two days to respond, failing which they may face action.

Permits issued to contractors involved in the illegal extraction were immediately suspended, and they were asked to explain the violations. The crackdown continued on Monday in the Himgiri area, where officials confiscated an additional 100 quintals of illegally stockpiled Kashmal roots. All Kashmal extraction from private lands was halted pending further investigation.

The evergreen Kashmal shrub, native to the Himalayan region, is valued for its medicinal properties, including treatments for jaundice, diabetes and eye infections. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic compounds are also under research for their potential to inhibit cancer cell growth.

DFO Guleria emphasised the department’s commitment to enforcing forest laws and preventing illegal activities. “Strict action has been taken against those involved, and a detailed report is being prepared to address the matter comprehensively,” he said.

Last month, Guleria’s team confiscated 70 quintals of Kashmal roots and apprehended a person involved in illegal extraction. Officials remain vigilant, warning of strict consequences for uprooting Kashmal from banned areas or exceeding permissible limits.

The operation underscores the department’s dedication to protecting forest resources and ensuring sustainable practices in the region.