Mail News Service
Ranchi, March 7: The Forest and Environment Department of Jharkhand has decided to conduct a detailed review of official land records in order to address the growing problem of encroachment on forest land across the state.
In recent years, incidents of illegal transfer of forest land, clearing of forests for agricultural activities, and the establishment of roadside shops have significantly increased.
According to government documents, nearly 50,000 acres of land in the state are currently under encroachment or illegal occupation.
However, the Forest Department officially acknowledges encroachment on about 32,000 acres of forest land.
Recently, encroachments were removed from forest land adjoining the Kanke circle in Ranchi, following a report submitted by the local Circle Officer. Taking the matter seriously, the department has now directed all regional officials to submit detailed reports on encroachments within their respective jurisdictions.
Complaints have also been received regarding several newly built resorts and shops along national highways allegedly occupying forest land illegally.
To prevent further encroachment, the Forest and Environment Department has decided to strengthen Forest Management Committees at the local level.
The department plans to increase the number of members in these committees and include residents of villages located within forest areas to ensure better monitoring and protection of forest land.
