Forest dept. to strengthen surveillance in Marayur Sandal division

The Forest Department has moved to strengthen protection measures in the Marayur Sandal Division to safeguard its high-value timber.

In the Nachivayal Reserve near Kanthallur, which holds the division’s highest density of sandalwood trees, authorities have reorganised duty patterns and authorised officials to carry guns to counter timber smugglers and the threat of wild animal attacks.

An order issued by Nachivayal Deputy Forest Range Officer GV Shibu stated that the reserve has been divided into two blocks, NSR 1 and NSR 2, with protection responsibilities assigned to two section forest officers daily.

According to the order, NSR 2 poses a high risk of wildlife encounters. “Staff assigned to this block must carry firearms and be accompanied by an arms-trained official. If necessary, protection officers in NSR 1 are also authorised to carry weapons,” said the order.

“The order also enforced strict leave policies. Leaves will only be sanctioned for staff maintaining 70% attendance, and those taking long leave must provide 15 days’ notice,” said the order.

Mr. Shibu confirmed that new directions have been issued to strengthen the protection of the Nachivayal forest.

However, the Kerala State Forest Protective Staff Organisation (KSFPSO) has raised concerns regarding staff welfare and the DRO’s management style. While the association welcomed the security boost, it highlighted the lack of basic amenities.

“Frontline officers support the reserve’s protection, but staff—including women forest officials—are suffering due to a lack of basic amenities. Toilets and rest facilities remain a distant dream for those on duty,” said KSFPSO president P.G. Santhosh.

“The association is now demanding a three-to-six-hour rotation pattern to provide relief to staff currently engaged in 24-hour shifts,” said Mr Santhosh.

“ The DFRO is forcing staff to work day shifts immediately following full-night duty. These orders are intended to suppress the willpower of field staff,” alleged Mr Santhosh.

The Marayur Sandalwood Reserve spans 1,460.77 hectares and is the only natural sandalwood forest in India, with an estimated timber value of approximately ₹3,000 crore.