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The Odisha government faces the challenge of clearing 53,480 acres of encroached government land, despite reclaiming 55,293 acres out of a total of 1,08,773 acres under the Odisha Prevention of Land Encroachment (OPLE) Act, 1972. Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari emphasized ongoing district-level efforts, with collectors directed to survey and protect cleared areas. Fencing and signage are being prioritized to prevent re-encroachment. Public awareness campaigns are also being launched to address the issue sustainably. While significant progress has been made, the government aims to ensure the reclaimed land serves public needs, supporting infrastructure and community development across Odisha.
The Odisha government is facing a significant challenge with land encroachment, as over 53,480 acres of government land remain occupied illegally across various districts. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari addressed this issue in the Assembly, confirming that efforts to clear encroachments are ongoing under the Odisha Prevention of Land Encroachment (OPLE) Act, 1972.
In response to a question from BJD legislator Arun Kumar Sahoo, Minister Pujari provided an overview of the current situation. He stated that, out of a total of 1,08,773 acres of encroached government land, approximately 55,293 acres have been successfully cleared. However, the remaining 53,480 acres continue to pose a problem. The government is actively working to resolve this issue by implementing measures at the district level in accordance with the OPLE Act and the associated rules established in 1985.
To facilitate the removal of encroachments, the Revenue and Disaster Management Department issued directives to district collectors in July and September. These instructions emphasised the need for a comprehensive survey of encroachments in both rural and urban areas. Additional Chief Secretary Satyabrata Sahu highlighted the importance of accurately assessing the extent of encroachments to inform future actions.
One of the critical components of the government's strategy is to ensure that cleared land is protected from future encroachments. Collectors have been tasked with constructing fences and placing clear signage around the cleared areas, using allocated funds for these protective measures. This approach aims not only to reclaim land but also to prevent further illegal occupation.
Land encroachment is a pressing issue in many parts of India, impacting agricultural production, urban development, and community resources. In Odisha, the government is exploring various strategies to address this problem effectively. This includes public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the legal implications of encroachment and the importance of respecting government land.
The government's commitment to tackling land encroachment reflects a broader effort to promote responsible land use and management. By addressing this issue, Odisha aims to ensure that government land is utilised for public benefit, including infrastructure development and community services. As the government continues its efforts, the cooperation of local communities will be essential in achieving lasting solutions.
In conclusion, while significant progress has been made in clearing encroachments on government land in Odisha, challenges remain. The government's ongoing initiatives, including surveys, protective measures, and public awareness campaigns, are vital steps toward resolving this issue. As the situation develops, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how effectively the state can reclaim and protect its land for the benefit of all citizens.