Gajapati, Feb. 22 -- The number of Red Sanders trees, which once made up a large and dense forest in Odisha's Gajapati district, is severely declining. Historically, the district boasted the largest Red Sands forest in Asia.

However, the current scenario is alarming, with the forest dwindling drastically.

Speaking to ANI, Paralakhemundi DFO S. Anand expressed concern over the depletion of red sander trees, stating, "During the reign of the Paralakhemundi Maharaja, red sander trees were planted on a large scale and were well maintained. There was no destruction during his time. However, due to improper arrangements and loopholes in the system, people from neighbouring states are now illicitly cutting and taking away these highly valuable...