Pune: Illegal Teak Tree Felling Alleged Near Dimbhe Dam, Concerns Rise Over Loss Of TreesĀ
Pune: Illegal Teak Tree Felling Alleged Near Dimbhe Dam, Concerns Rise Over Loss Of Trees
Pune, April 6, 2026: A serious case of alleged illegal felling of teak trees has come to light in the forest areas surrounding Dimbhe Dam, raising concerns about environmental damage in a sensitive ecological zone.
The western parts of Ambegaon, Khed, and Junnar talukas in Pune district are known for their rich forest cover due to the presence of the Western Ghats. The region around Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary is particularly recognized for its biodiversity. However, reports suggest that large-scale illegal cutting of teak trees is taking place in this very area.
According to local sources, teak trees are being felled in forest patches near the lower belt of the sanctuary, close to the dam, and the timber is allegedly being smuggled out, often during nighttime operations. The forest area is home to several valuable tree species, making the activity even more concerning.
Many villages in this region fall under the PESA (Panchayats Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, where tree felling requires mandatory permission from the District Collector. Additionally, any legally cut trees must bear an official forest department hammer mark. However, visuals and local reports indicate that trees are being cut without such permissions or markings, pointing to clear violations of norms.
The issue was highlighted by social activist Vinod Sonawale, who alleged that several illegal brick kilns are operating near the dam area. He claims that these kilns are driving indiscriminate tree cutting to source fuel and raw materials. Sonawale also stated that he has repeatedly filed complaints with the forest department and followed up on the matter.
Environmentalists warn that continued deforestation in such an ecologically fragile zone could have a direct impact on forest wealth and biodiversity. Meanwhile, locals have accused the forest department of ignoring the situation despite the scale of the activity.
Attention is now focused on what action authorities will take and whether accountability will be fixed if any officials are found to have deliberately overlooked the violations.
