In a major step toward protecting and preserving forest land, the Central Forest Division carried out a large-scale encroachment removal drive in the Heingang Reserve Forest.
The operation was led by Range Forest Officers (RFO) M Jobid Meitei of Sadar East and S Robatson Singh of Nongmaiching. A total of 18 illegally constructed structures were dismantled during the drive. These encroachments, officials said, threatened the ecological integrity and biodiversity of the reserve.
The Forest Department was assisted by Imphal East Police, whose presence ensured the smooth execution of the drive without any resistance. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Imphal East and his team were credited for maintaining law and order throughout the operation.
Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Vikram Nadhe, IFS, reaffirmed the department’s commitment to forest conservation, calling Reserve Forests “the lungs of the state” and “repositories of natural heritage.” He stressed the importance of safeguarding the Heingang Reserve Forest, describing it as a biodiversity treasure trove.
The DFO also appealed to the public to refrain from encroaching on forest land, underlining that protection of forests is both a legal duty and an ecological necessity. “Preserving these forests ensures the ecological balance essential for our sustainable future,” he said.
RFO Jobid Meitei highlighted the critical role of the Heingang Reserve Forest in maintaining the local microclimate, preventing soil erosion, and supporting diverse flora and fauna.
Officials further stated that the crackdown marks strict enforcement of the Indian Forest Act and related laws, serving as a warning against illegal occupation of forest land. The department also announced regular monitoring and patrolling to prevent re-encroachment, alongside awareness campaigns to encourage community-led conservation.
The Central Forest Division said the drive is part of a broader strategy to reclaim and restore illegally occupied forest land across the state, with zero tolerance for encroachment.
