Once bustling with activities the Sawmills in Haa wear a deserted look now. They have been closed down temporarily for a week now following reports on illegal timber business in the media.
Residents of Haa alleged the Dzongkhag and forestry officials to be colluding with the local businessmen in the illegal business.
But the Sawmill owners deny such allegations. “All this report of illegal timber business and collusion have been exaggerated,” said Rinchen Khandu, one of the Sawmill owners.
“I am shocked, we were not even asked about it and the report is out,” said Golay, another Sawmill owner.
[pullquote]I am shocked, we were not even asked about it and the report is out.”
Golay, Sawmill owner[/pullquote]
The Sawmill owners said they buy timber through auction from other Dzongkhags. With strict rules and regulations in place, illegal timber business they said was impossible.
“This is surprising; there is no chance for illegal timber business. We buy through auction and everything is on paper and we do our business accordingly,” said Kelzang Namgay.
Another Sawmill owner said: “There is no way of colluding. Everything is on paper and we have to show that paper at the check posts.”
With the Sawmills temporarily closed, the owners are going through a difficult time. “Now with business at halt, it is difficult. We have to pay the labourers. Vehicles are lying idle, it will be a loss. The various constructions will get delayed as timber cannot be delivered on time,” said one Sawmill owner.
Meanwhile, the investigation team comprising of forestry officials from Thimphu refused to comment since the case is still under investigation.
