TAPI: A Range Forest Officer (RFO) was killed in a road accident while pursuing suspected timber smugglers in Gujarat's Tapi district, prompting the state government to announce a thorough investigation and reiterate its "zero tolerance" policy against crimes targeting forest resources.
Vikas Desai, a Range Forest Officer posted in the Tapti Range of Tapi district, died while on duty after allegedly chasing a vehicle carrying illegally felled khair timber (wood).
According to the state government, Desai launched the operation immediately after receiving information that smugglers were fleeing with the valuable wood.
He was involved in a fatal accident during the pursuit. Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia paid tribute to Desai, describing his death as an irreparable loss to the Forest Department and expressing condolences to his family.
"Only if forest culture remains alive can human civilisation continue to exist. The sacrifice of RFO Vikas Desai for this noble cause can never be forgotten," Modhwadia said.
He added that Desai had acted with "unwavering dedication to duty and a strong sense of responsibility" after receiving information about the alleged timber theft and would remain "a source of inspiration for the entire forest fraternity".
The minister said, "The work of the Forest Department extends beyond administrative responsibility and represents a sacred responsibility to protect nature, the environment and the future of coming generations."
He added that Gujarat's forests, wildlife and natural resources remain protected because of the commitment of dedicated officers.
Modhwadia also paid tribute on behalf of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the state government and the Forest Department, and prayed for strength for the bereaved family.
Announcing a detailed investigation into the incident, the minister said the state would continue to pursue a policy of "zero tolerance" against illegal activities that damage forest resources and that strict action would be taken against those involved.
Desai was a native of Bhatsar village in Chanasma taluka of Patan district. The third of four siblings, he had previously served as a Deputy Section Officer in the Secretariat before joining the Forest Department around three years ago.
He is survived by his parents, wife and five-year-old son. Minister of State for Forests, Pravin Mali, also conveyed condolences to the family.
Senior Forest Department officials, including Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Dr Jaypal Singh, visited the family to offer their condolences.
--IANS
