Agartala (Tripura) [India], May 1 (HBTV): In a significant move to strengthen forest protection, the Forest Department of Tripura distributed 58 motorcycles to frontline field staff, including foresters and Forest Range Officers, at a programme held at the Tripura State Forest Academy Ground in Hatipara, Agartala.

The distribution, conducted on Wednesday, aims to enhance the mobility and response efficiency of forest personnel during patrols, particularly in vulnerable forest zones. The motorcycles are expected to support operations in curbing illegal activities such as timber smuggling and exploitation of forest resources.

Tripura Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma underlined the need to modernise forest protection mechanisms.

‘Inspired by the sophisticated tools being used in other departments like BSF, we also plan to introduce four-wheeled vehicles for forest patrolling,’ he said.

The Minister also revealed plans to equip forest personnel with advanced weapons such as AK-47 rifles to effectively combat smugglers and illegal intrusions.

‘This is the high time to protect our forests by every means,’ Debbarma asserted. ‘Tripura, being a small hilly state with over 67% forest cover, should stand as a unique example of afforestation in the country.’

A senior forest officer present at the event remarked that the initiative would enhance unity and coordination among forest staff.

‘We are committed to introducing more such measures because preserving our forests is not just a duty — it’s a responsibility,’ the officer said.

The initiative marks a notable step toward modernising forest surveillance infrastructure and reinforces the state government’s commitment to preserving Tripura’s rich biodiversity for future generations.

(ANI)