Ukhia, Mar 22 (V7N)– The Cox's Bazar South Forest Division has demolished five illegally constructed structures built on encroached forest land in the Ukhia Sadar Bit area. The operation took place on Saturday morning, March 22.

The demolition was carried out under the leadership of Ukhia Range Officer (Assistant Conservator of Forests) Shahinur Islam. No arrests were made during the operation.

"The Cox's Bazar South Forest Division has demolished five structures illegally built by occupying forest land in Ukhia Sadar Bit, Cox's Bazar," a forest official confirmed.

According to reports, a group had illegally occupied forest land in the Shiler Chhara, T&T, and Kutupalong areas of Ukhia Sadar Bit and began constructing new structures. This activity occurred amidst a perceived change of land ownership, which the encroachers attempted to exploit.

The Forest Department issued notices to the encroachers, demanding they cease construction and provide necessary documentation. However, the notices were ignored, prompting the department to conduct the demolition operation.

"Notices have been issued to those who illegally encroached on forest land and requested necessary documents. But they did not respond to the notice even after 15 days and continued to build the structures, disobeying the instructions of the Forest Department," said Ukhia Range Officer Shahinur Islam.

The Forest Department confirmed that the structures were being built illegally on encroached forest land. Following this confirmation, the demolition was carried out.

Warning signboards have been installed in the area to deter further encroachment. The Forest Department has issued a strong warning that legal action will be taken against anyone who illegally encroaches on forest land, regardless of their status.

"There is only one warning to the encroachers, that is, legal action will be taken if they illegally encroach on forest land, no matter how big their identity is," Shahinur Islam stated. He also affirmed that the drive to prevent encroachment in the Ukhia Range will continue.

The operation underscores the Forest Department's commitment to protecting forest land and preventing illegal construction.