The Telangana state government has submitted an interim report to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) regarding forest land encroachment. According to the report, approximately 7.65 lakh acres of forest land, valued at hundreds of crores, have been encroached upon in Telangana.
The report highlights that out of the total geographical area of 2.77 crore acres in the state, forests cover around 66.54 lakh acres. However, 7.65 lakh acres of this forest land have been encroached, accounting for 11.48% of the total forest area.
The state government assured the NGT of taking measures to address this issue. It mentioned ongoing efforts such as regular patrolling by forest beat officers, inspections to prevent tree felling and encroachment, and the establishment of base camps and checkposts. Additionally, the government has deployed flying squad parties, vigilance teams, and an anti-poaching squad for forest protection.
To enhance reporting and response mechanisms, the government has set up a crime control cell and a toll-free hotline for reporting forest offences, poaching, smuggling, and complaints against staff.
Despite these efforts, activists express concerns over the government’s ability to safeguard forest land. In response, the Telangana government has committed to establishing a detailed encroachment identification system and addressing the matter in District Forest Protection Committee meetings.
