Our Special Correspondent
Tura:
Despite multiple check points located across the entry and exit areas in Garo Hills, timber continues to be smuggled right under the nose of the authorities.
Less than a week after student groups intercepted a timber-laden vehicle and seized the illegal consignment in Ampati region of South West Garo Hills, another vehicle with a similar load was stopped in Garobadha area. The driver however managed to flee with the illegal logs on Wednesday night.
Vigilant locals had intercepted a mini utility truck with ten large logs of timber passing through Megonggre area of Garobadha at around 10 pm.
The driver and occupant inside the vehicle were unable to produce relevant document relating to the transportation of the timber which was heading to neighbouring Assam through the plain region of West Garo Hills.
Even as the village volunteers were attempting to contact the authorities about the interception, the driver managed to start the vehicle and drive away. Some student volunteers tried to give chase but failed to catch up with the timber-laden vehicle which disappeared into the night.