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Burhanpur Administration scrutinizes 4,000 Patta applications amid encroachment crackdown

The Burhanpur district administration is currently examining thousands of patta applications (government land on lease) and previously allotted pattas to locals in the midst of an ongoing crackdown on encroachers. As of now, approximately 7,500 to 8,000 pattas have been granted, with a maximum of 4 hectares permitted for each tribal applicant. With 20,000 hectares already leased and 4,000 applications pending approval, the administration aims to ensure that only eligible applicants receive pattas.

According to senior administrative officials, the applications have been pending for four to five years. The verification process involves several parameters, including the applicant's current land ownership, the area applied for, and eligibility. Collector Bhavya Mittal mentioned that some applicants have requested as much as 10-12 hectares on patta, far exceeding the maximum limit of four hectares.

The administration has received complaints about individuals involved in illegal tree felling or encroachment applying for pattas. Mittal emphasized that ineligible people would not be granted pattas. To maintain transparency and accuracy, the forest department, with assistance from the revenue department, will carry out on-site verifications of land allotted on patta. If additional land is found to be encroached upon for farming or other purposes, it will be reclaimed.

As part of the crackdown, the district administration has also sought to address the environmental impact of encroachment. In an effort to balance development with environmental conservation, the forest department has approved two development projects in forest areas. District Forest Officer Anupam Sharma announced that formal approval had been granted to construct a pond under the Amrut Sarovar Scheme in Imli Falya of Malvir gram panchayat, covering 0.85 hectares. Additionally, principal approval has been granted for the construction of a public well on 0.0025 hectares in Motli Bori Falya of Jhirpanjariya gram panchayat.

The administration's proactive approach to tackling encroachment and illegal land usage demonstrates its commitment to preserving the environment and ensuring fair distribution of land resources. This initiative not only safeguards the rights and interests of eligible applicants but also helps protect the ecological balance in the region.

In conclusion, the Burhanpur district administration's rigorous scrutiny of patta applications and previously allotted pattas sends a clear message to encroachers. By ensuring that only eligible applicants receive pattas and conducting on-site verifications of allocated land, the administration aims to protect the environment and promote sustainable land use. Through its collaboration with the forest and revenue departments, the administration demonstrates its dedication to preserving the rights and interests of eligible applicants while maintaining the ecological balance in the region.

This story was first published in ET Realty

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