Baripada: Forest department officials have been asked to step up foot patrolling in Similipal Wildlife Sanctuary in Mayurbhanj district after the killing of a guard by poachers Monday. They have been warned of salary cuts if they are found neglecting their duty, sources said Tuesday. The matter came to the fore after Prakash Chand Gogineni, field director and regional chief conservator of forests of Similipal Tiger Reserve issued a direction in this regard.
The notification assumes significance as there has been a sharp rise in poaching incidents inside the sanctuary leading to the deaths of a large number of elephants and other animals. Poachers and the timber mafia are also felling precious trees and smuggling those to other parts of the country. The clampdown on Forest officials comes amid allegations of shirking work. It has been alleged that many personnel are simply spending time in office and not going out for patrolling citing bad road conditions. Then there are some officials who just patrol 15- 17kms a week on foot.
All these issues have made the life of the poachers that much easier. As per the new order, a forest guard has to cover a distance of 100 to 120km per month on foot for patrolling. Similarly, foresters have to cover 70km, range officers 50km, and ACFs 30km on foot per month. Anyone found violating the order would face disciplinary action, the notification said. Sources said that those who violate the norms will be issued showcases for the first offence. If they repeat the fault, salaries may be deducted or will completely be stopped. Two separate apps have been developed to monitor foot patrolling by the Forest Department staff. The apps will clearly display patrolling on foot and in vehicles. The assistant conservator of forests (ACFs) will be monitoring the movement of those entrusted with the responsibility of patrolling.