GANDERBAL, APRIL 21: A meeting of the District Level Committee constituted for monitoring the progress of demarcation of forest boundaries and installation of boundary pillars was today chaired by the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Ganderbal, Syed Faheem Bihaqi here.
At the outset, the ADC took a detailed review of the work being carried out by the Forest Department regarding demarcation of forest land and installation of boundary pillars. The Divisional Forest Officer apprised the chair that substantial progress has been achieved in several forest areas, while work in some remaining locations is underway.
It was informed that in certain areas, the demarcation process requires assistance from the Revenue Department due to the non-availability of relevant records with the Forest Department. The chair was also apprised that some forest compartments extend into neighbouring districts, and coordination is being maintained with the concerned authorities to address related issues.
Emphasizing the importance of clear and accurate records, the ADC directed the Forest Department to rationalize and update data related to boundary pillars in a systematic manner for better clarity and monitoring.
He further instructed that all pending works related to demarcation and installation of boundary pillars be completed within the stipulated timeframe. Tehsildars were directed to provide necessary support on priority to ensure smooth execution of the process on the ground.
While reviewing issues related to forest protection, the ADC stressed the need for immediate identification of areas affected by encroachment. He directed that necessary steps be taken for removal of encroachments in a phased and coordinated manner.
The Assistant Commissioner Panchayat was asked to furnish the status of cases under the Forest Rights Act to facilitate effective action.
To ensure smooth conduct of eviction drives, the ADC directed that adequate magisterial and security support be provided in coordination with the Revenue and Police departments to maintain law and order.
The meeting was attended by the Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Divisional Forest Officer Sindh Forest Division Ganderbal, representatives of the Wildlife Department, and Tehsildars from various tehsils of the district.