Leopard habitat saved from encroachers

THANE: The forest department successfully reclaimed 12 acres of reserved forest land, an integral part of the wildlife habitat, particularly for leopards from the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP). The reclamation was achieved through a surprise demolition drive conducted over the weekend, as reported by officials.
The raid was meticulously planned following a comprehensive survey of the encroached reserved forest land in the Pankhanda area, adjacent to Ghodbunder road near the city Thane city fringes.The study unveiled the presence of approximately 15 commercial establishments, including garages, lodges, and resorts, which were utilized for hosting birthday celebrations, marriage ceremonies among others.
These entities had progressively encroached upon the land over the past several years, prompting the forest department to launch a surprise raid on Saturday, officials said.
A well-coordinated team from the forest department, supported by the Kasarwadavli police personnel, descended upon the illegal structures and swiftly demolished the unauthorized permanent and temporary constructions, as confirmed by officials.
To prevent future encroachments, the authorities have now excavated trenches in the surrounding areas and have pledged to initiate a tree plantation drive. Additionally, staff will be deployed to ensure the stretch remains protected from further encroachment attempts.
"We have demolished numerous structures that were erected on land unlawfully seized by the mafia and subsequently leased for commercial purposes, including marriage and birthday celebrations. These activities were causing significant disturbance to the wildlife from the Sanjay Gandhi National Park area, as the encroached land was categorized as a reserved forest area and served as a natural habitat for leopards," stated a forest officer.