Bengaluru, 23 June

In a major operation to protect Bengaluru’s fast-depleting green cover, the Karnataka government on Monday reclaimed 120 acres of encroached forest land in Kadugodi Plantation, Bidarahalli Hobli, Bengaluru East Taluk. The land, valued at over ₹4,000 crore, was cleared following a directive from Forest, Environment and Ecology Minister Eshwar Khandre.

The early morning operation was led by officers from the Bengaluru Urban Forest Department, supported by JCB machinery and tight police security. Encroachments were removed, boundaries demarcated, fencing erected, and native saplings planted to aid ecological restoration.

Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) Sivasankar Sengottuvel told Salar News, “Approximately 130 acres of forest land are under reclamation by the Forest Department. Notices will be issued to those responsible for illegal construction. None of the individuals or entities involved possess the necessary documents to justify their occupation of the forest land.”

The reclaimed land falls under Survey No. 1 of Kadugodi Plantation. Officials said the area was illegally occupied and development had occurred without any valid authorisation.

During a recent review meeting, Minister Khandre expressed concern over Bengaluru’s rapid urban expansion and the steady depletion of green zones. He stressed that forest encroachments must be cleared in accordance with the law and that green spaces, vital as the city's "breathing zones," must be preserved.

Since Khandre assumed office, 128 acres of forest land in Bengaluru have been reclaimed. With Monday's clearance, the total now stands at 248 acres, valued at over Rs 8,000 crore.