Forest Department Directs Investigation Following Complaint on Janjehli-Gadagushaini-Jibhi Forest Corridor

Following field investigations conducted in September 2026, we submitted a formal complaint to the Forest Department concerning suspected environmental disturbances along the Janjehli-Gadagushaini-Jibhi forest corridor in Himachal Pradesh. The Department has since directed an urgent field inspection to verify the reported concerns and determine appropriate action.

Field Investigation and Environmental Concerns

Between 24 and 26 September 2026, we conducted field investigations along the Janjehli-Gadagushaini-Jibhi corridor to examine activities potentially affecting the surrounding forest environment.

The investigation was led by our CEO, Major General Atul Kaushik, SM, VSM, Wound Medal (Retd.), and involved GPS-referenced field observations, photographic and video documentation, and examination of satellite imagery.

Based on these observations, we submitted a formal complaint to the concerned Forest Department authorities, seeking verification of several suspected activities, including:

• Disturbance of forest slopes.
• Tree felling and timber removal.
• Movement of debris.
• Other related activities along the forest corridor.

These concerns were formally brought to the Department’s attention for examination and necessary action under the applicable rules.

Forest Department Directs Official Investigation

On 5 October 2026, the Divisional Forest Officer, Seraj, confirmed through written correspondence that the Range Forest Officer, Banjar, had been directed to examine our complaint on priority.

The direction was issued through Endorsement No. 1878, dated 05.10.2026.

As part of the official response, the Range Forest Officer has been instructed to:

1. Conduct an urgent joint field inspection of the concerned locations.
2. Verify the activities reported in the complaint.
3. Provide point-wise factual findings on the issues raised.
4. Submit an Action Taken Report supported by photographs and GPS coordinates wherever necessary.

The Department has further indicated that appropriate action should be taken wherever warranted. We will be informed of the outcome once the field report has been received.

Current Status and Further Action

As of 10 October 2026, departmental field verification has been directed, while the factual findings and Action Taken Report remain awaited.

We welcome the Forest Department’s response and its decision to examine the reported concerns through an official field inspection. We will continue to pursue the matter through appropriate administrative channels and await the findings of the investigation.

Our objective remains the protection of environmentally sensitive forest areas through objective verification, lawful action, and accountable administration.

The concerns raised in our complaint remain subject to official investigation. No final conclusion regarding illegality or responsibility has been established through this update. The Department’s findings will be essential in determining the factual position and any further action required.