Pine trees cut down illegally for timber

JOWAI: Miscreants are cutting down standing pine trees illegally in Mawkyndeng in West Jaintia Hills and selling them for as low as Rs. 3 to Rs 5 per kilogram.
According to the residents of Mawkyndeng village, the theft is committed during the night.
The thieves target young pine trees as they are easy to be transported in small vehicle such as pick-up truck. Sources also informed that pine trees were sold for Rs 3 to Rs 5 per kilogram to local timber traders.
A Mawkyndeng pine grove owner said he first noticed some trees were cut down a few days ago and the same was repeated on Monday night.
He informed that such crime was committed in many pine groves in the village.