Karnataka Forest Minister warns against illegal tree felling amid gas shortage
Bengaluru (PTI): Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre on Thursday directed officials to remain vigilant to prevent illegal tree felling in forests, areas bordering them, and government lands in the wake of increased demand for firewood due to LPG scarcity, triggered by the widening West Asia conflict.
In written instructions issued to the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of the Forest Force, Meenakshi Negi, the minister said that the impact of the LPG shortage has been felt in Karnataka as well.
Citing that restaurants, resorts and homestays are facing difficulties in obtaining commercial LPG cylinders, and disruptions are being reported in the supply of domestic cooking gas, he has ordered officials to intensify patrols and surveillance to prevent illegal tree felling for firewood.
He further directed all forest circles and divisions to take appropriate patrol and precautionary measures.
The minister warned that if illegal tree felling occurs in forests or government land, the concerned range officer and staff would be held responsible.
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Himachal: 3 tourists dead, 10 injured as tempo falls into gorge in Kullu
Manali (HP) (PTI): Three tourists died while 10 others suffered serious injuries when their tourist tempo traveller skidded off the road and fell into a gorge in Himachal Pradesh's Kullu district on Saturday night, police said.
According to the District Disaster Management Authority, about 20 people were on board, and the vehicle was returning from Jalori Pass.
Preliminary reports suggest that the tourist vehicle skidded off the road due to slippery conditions created by incessant rains while descending toward Bhuntar on the 15 km stretch.
As many as 10 tourists have been rescued, and the condition of one of them is critical. Three tourists died on the spot.
Police, fire service personnel, and local administration are jointly conducting rescue operations.
The tourists were staying in a hotel in Jhibi, about 10 km away from Banjar town, where the accident occurred.
The injured have been rushed to nearby hospitals, officials said.
Further details are awaited.
