Odisha Govt Issues Directive to Remove Land Encroachments Promptly

Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of the Revenue and Disaster Management department, Satyabrata Sahu, issued this directive in a letter addressed to all collectors on Saturday.

The decision follows serious concerns raised during a high-level meeting regarding widespread encroachments on government-owned land. Sahu emphasized the critical importance of efficient land resource management and the allocation of land for various developmental purposes across different sectors of the economy.

“Encroachments on government land, whether in urban or rural areas, hinder the smooth allocation of land for developmental projects. This not only results in unrealized opportunity costs but also leads to legal disputes,” stated Sahu, highlighting the multifaceted challenges posed by illegal encroachments.

In response to these challenges, collectors have been instructed to conduct a comprehensive survey to identify encroachments and take necessary action as per existing regulations. Following the removal of encroachments, they are mandated to protect the reclaimed land by erecting suitable fences and prominently displaying boards. Funds allocated for this purpose are to be utilized accordingly.

To ensure accountability and progress, collectors are required to submit a detailed action taken report to the department every fortnight.

The Odisha government’s proactive stance aims to safeguard public land and facilitate effective utilization for developmental initiatives, reinforcing the state’s commitment to efficient land governance.