From Our Correspondent
NONGSTOIN: Citing lack of means of livelihood as the prime reason for the functioning of the local sawmills, Meghalaya Land and Forest Owners Association (MLFOA) president K K Singh Phunbuh said the owners of the mills were ready to court arrest if an FIR is filed against them.
Phanbuh was speaking at a meeting convened by the timber traders and sawmill owners in Nongstoin on Thursday.
Phunbuh also clarified that though the sawmill owners fell trees, for each tree a sapling was planted.
The MLFOA president’s views also got support from an unlikely corner when Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) TTC Marak, who was the chief guest on the occasion, said that the local sawmills were functioning to serve a genuine purpose.
Marak though advised the mill owners to maintain an eco-friendly attitude. “Carrying out plantation drives is extremely important to maintain the ecological balance of the area,” Marak said.
The Conservator of Forests pointed out that the State does not have a clear cut land policy which makes things complicated. He also requested the owners to register their forests with the District Forest Officer for proper planning.
Marak informed that a committee has been formed to study the case of the local sawmills and a report will be submitted for the same.
However, the PCCF minced no words in pointing out that that commercial use of charcoal was illegal and hence strictly prohibited in the area.
