Following a Supreme Court order, a strict crackdown on illegal constructions in the Aravali forest area is underway. In a major operation conducted on Sunday, a day typically observed as a holiday, a joint team comprising the Forest Department and the Municipal Corporation took action.
Bulldozer Action: The joint operation by the Forest Department and the Municipal Corporation, spurred by the Supreme Court's stringent directives regarding the Aravali forest area, has gained momentum. Even on Sunday, a usually non-working day, a large team of officials equipped with bulldozers demolished several high-profile illegal constructions along the Badkhal-Ankheer Road and Surajkund Road. This action included the demolition of the Sultnat Farm House, Mahipal Garden, and other banquet halls.
Supreme Court's Strict Stance, Report Due in July
The Supreme Court has explicitly ordered the removal of over 6000 illegal constructions from the Aravali forest area and mandated a detailed report on the action to be submitted to the court by July 2025. Consequently, the administration is working with full diligence. While government officials are actively taking action against land encroachers, local residents and farm house owners are seen protesting.
Bulldozers Target Sultnat Farm House and Mahipal Garden
Sunday's action focused on two large illegal constructions – the Sultnat Farm House and Mahipal Garden. Both locations had been used for weddings and other events for years, but investigations revealed that their construction was illegal and on forest land. Rajkumar, the District Executive Officer of the Forest Department, stated, "We have clear orders from the Supreme Court, and despite any political pressure or opposition, the action will continue. Daily demolition reports are being sent to senior officials, and completing the target by July is mandatory."
Protests Encountered, but Administration Remains Firm
On Saturday, the team demolishing the Mahipal Green Valley Farm House faced opposition from locals and some alleged owners. However, despite the protests, the bulldozers did not stop, and the farm house was demolished. Former Mayor Devendra Bhadana's name also surfaced in connection with this matter. People claimed that Mahipal Green Valley was their property, but Bhadana denied any involvement, stating, "I have nothing to do with this farm house. I have been raising my voice against Mahipal Green Valley for a long time."
He also clarified that he never stated that the farm house was not built on forest land. Forest Department officials maintain that this action is only the beginning. Dozens more illegal constructions will be demolished in the coming weeks.
