Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, August 7, 2025 – The Meerut Forest Department took strong action against illegal tree cutting in the Hastinapur range, arresting seven people and imposing a fine of ₹2.7 lakh. The crackdown, which happened on August 5, 2025, followed reports of unauthorized tree felling in Guda village. This move shows the department’s commitment to protecting forests and wildlife in Uttar Pradesh.
Acting on a tip-off, forest officials raided the site near a canal in Guda village. They found evidence of 14 illegally cut trees, including two shisham, four kanji, six jamun, and two eucalyptus trees. The culprits had hidden the tree stumps under soil and bushes to cover their tracks. The seven individuals who were caught red-handed and arrested are Sher Mohammad, Bablu, Faraqat, Iqrar, Qaris, Vikas, and Jaane Alam. They are arrested under the UP Tree Protection Act and UP Transit of Timber and Other Forest Produce Rules, 1978. The ₹2.7 lakh fine was imposed as compensation for the environmental damage caused by their actions.
“This is a serious offense,” said a forest official involved in the operation. “Cutting trees without permission harms our forests and wildlife. We will continue to act swiftly against such violations.” The quick response from the Hastinapur range team highlights the department’s vigilance in tackling illegal activities that threaten the region’s greenery.
The Meerut Forest Department has been stepping up efforts to curb deforestation, especially in ecologically sensitive areas like the Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary. Local residents have praised the action, with many expressing hope that it will deter others from harming the environment.
To report illegal activities, residents can contact the Meerut Forest Department or visit their office for assistance. The department also encourages replanting efforts and community involvement to restore green cover. Offenders can face hefty fines, jail time, or both under the law, depending on the scale of the violation.
This incident comes amid broader environmental efforts in Uttar Pradesh, where the government is promoting tree plantation drives and stricter enforcement of forest laws. For instance, recent actions in other states, like a ₹7 lakh fine imposed on a company in Pune for illegal tree felling, show a growing focus on protecting natural resources across India.
