Is there a meaningful and constructive way to protect cleared government lands and ensure their better utilisation? These questions appear to be haunting the authorities following the eviction from encroached government lands and tank-beds in Bengaluru and other parts in the State.
The Kolar district administration has presented a model in this direction. It has harped on a novel plan to raise plantations on tank-beds which have been cleared of encroachments.
Planting of saplings on previously encroached land on Kodikannur tank bed near the town is now making news.
Deputy Commissioner K.V. Thrilokchandra launched the programme on Friday with zilla panchayat Chief Executive Officer N.M. Panali and Superintendent of Police Ajay Hilori.
Prevention of re-encroachment of cleared land, saving it as public asset permanently and turning it in to an eco-friendly zone is the objective of the planting drive, Mr. Thrilokchandra has said. Honge has been selected considering its multi-pronged utility. The plant will help increase the nitrogen content of soil and will provide green-leaf manure, as well as providing shade.
Mr. Thrilokchandra has warned that a three-year jail term and Rs. 25,000 fine would be slapped under the Land Grabbing Prevention Act if the land was encroached upon again.
