The encroachers are extending the settlement under the pretext of building cow-sheds which are later turned into a dwelling house. [break]
Even the historically and religiously prominent Bageshwari Temple has now come under threat as the encroachers have not spared the forest area near the temple. Dozens of houses have been built in the area by chopping down trees lately.
"Every month we see new settlements in the Mahabharat Range. The cow-sheds made in the mountain range are rapidly being converted into homes," said Gangadutt Paneru of Rupal VDC-5.
Likewise, the encroachers are also making houses close to Bhim Datta Highway. The Mahabharat Range, which was full of trees only a few years ago, is briskly transforming into residential area, say locals.
The widespread deforestation is sure to cause flooding and landslides in the Mahabharat Range, say experts. The uncontrolled spread of human settlements has also led to a rise in poaching of wild animals. According to locals, "The illegal business of dry meat of wild animals has expanded in the district. Such meat products are transported to other districts as well."
Meanwhile, Distirct Forest Officer Binod Devkota said he was unaware about the ongoing encroachment in the Mahabharat Range. Among the encroachers are the victims of flood and landslide in the inner-Tarai area.
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