India, March 22 -- The forest department has taken action against 27 sawmills operating illegally in Pune and Solapur districts. A special drive was conducted between February 28 and March 20.

Twelve cases were registered by the Bhamburda range forest officer in Pimpri Chinchwad, while 15 cases were registered by the mobile squad appointed by the forest circle office in Pune.

Apart from mill owners, action was also taken against several companies for illegal tree cutting and storage of wood. Three vehicles were also seized carrying wood peck illegally.

"We have registered cases against the individuals as well as the comp. We are also preparing a detailed report on how much wood has been seized in this drive," said Tukaram Jadhav, range...