Apple Orchards Cleared from Forest Land in Himachal’s Kotkhai
In a powerful move toward environmental justice, the Forest Department has begun removing apple trees from illegally occupied forest land in Chaithala village, Kotkhai. This marks a turning point in Himachal Pradesh’s long-standing struggle against land encroachment—where, for the first time, even influential orchard owners are being held accountable.
The action comes after a firm directive from the Himachal Pradesh High Court, which has made it clear that forest land encroachment will no longer be tolerated—regardless of the offender’s status. Previously, enforcement was largely limited to small-scale farmers, while larger, politically connected landholders often escaped scrutiny.
The Chaithala case had been stalled for four years due to bureaucratic delays in land verification. But with the court’s recent push, a coordinated effort involving forest officials, revenue officers, police, and local administrators has begun clearing the illegal plantations. Apple trees are now being cut down under official supervision, sending a strong message across the region.
This crackdown isn’t limited to Kotkhai. Similar operations are being planned in Jubbal and Rohru, where forest encroachments have also been reported. Officials emphasize that the law will be applied equally: “Whether a small farmer or a large orchardist, no one will be spared,” said a senior officer. To prevent unrest, police have also confiscated weapons from residents during the operation.
In Sarahan village of Kumarsain, enforcement has gone further—removing not only apple trees but also pear and cherry trees planted on forest land. These actions, too, follow the High Court’s directive and reflect a broader commitment to restoring forest integrity.
With the judiciary’s clear stance, these enforcement drives could set a precedent for resolving many long-pending cases across Himachal Pradesh. The Forest Department is now preparing to extend this action to other areas where encroachments have remained untouched for years.
