Government Takes Major Action Against Encroachers of Water Bodies: Measures Ranging from FIRs to Demolition
Ranchi: The government of Jharkhand has signaled strict action against individuals who have encroached upon the land surrounding rivers, ponds, dams, and other water bodies to construct houses and other structures. During a review meeting with the Department of Urban Development and Housing, Chief Minister Hemant Soren issued clear directives to identify and remove all illegal encroachments on water bodies, and to ensure that legal action is taken against the perpetrators.
The Chief Minister informed officials that illegal constructions situated within the catchment areas and along the banks of water bodies not only pose a threat to the environment but also exacerbate problems such as waterlogging and flooding in urban areas. He emphasized that no leniency of any kind would be tolerated in such matters.
He directed all municipal bodies to conduct a survey of illegal structures built on water bodies and to issue notices to the encroachers. For those who fail to vacate the premises despite receiving a notice, First Information Reports (FIRs) are to be lodged, followed by action to demolish the illegal structures.
The Chief Minister stated that the state government would launch a comprehensive campaign to make water bodies free from encroachment. He also appealed to the general public to refrain from undertaking any form of construction on the land surrounding rivers, ponds, dams, and other water bodies, warning that strict action would be taken in such cases in the future.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister also issued specific directives to officials regarding the conservation of Kanke Dam, instructing them to take immediate steps to prevent encroachment within the dam area, fence off the catchment zone, and control pollution.
This decision by the government is being viewed as the most significant administrative crackdown to date against the rising encroachment on water bodies.
