Ukhiya, Oct 10 (V7N) – A man has been accused of cutting a hill in a reserved forest in Ukhiya to prepare land for a betel vine garden, while local residents have also alleged that he has occupied government land.
Residents have called for prompt action to protect forestland and recover the allegedly occupied government property.
During a field visit, a section of a hill behind the house of Kamal Hossain in Uttarpara village, Ward 5 of Ratnapalong Union, was found levelled. Bamboo, poles and other materials had been stored at the site in preparation for establishing a betel vine garden.
Local residents alleged that Kamal had long been attempting to occupy parts of the reserved forest by cutting vegetation and hills to establish betel vine gardens. They also claimed that some government land was under his control and called for a proper investigation into the allegations.
According to local sources, Kamal is the son of the late Ali Hossain of Uttarpara village.
Asked about the hill cutting, Kamal said he had levelled the hill behind his house to prepare the land for a betel vine garden. He also said he owned other land.
Ukhiya Range Officer Mohammad Abdul Mannan said the forest department would conduct an operation at the site soon.
He added that the allegations of forestland encroachment would be investigated and legal action taken against anyone found responsible.
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