The revelations about Jagdamba Steel encroaching over 25 bighas of land belonging to Parsa National Park highlight a disturbing trend of government land misappropriation in Nepal. This encroachment is not only an affront to the integrity of our national parks but also a testament to the pervasive influence of powerful industrial entities over the government's regulatory bodies. The concerned government bodies must take immediate action to retrieve the encroached land and hold those responsible accountable. Parsa National Park, a vital ecological sanctuary, is suffering due to the actions of Jagdamba Steel Pvt. Ltd. The Bhangre River, which once flowed freely through the park, has been confined within the high walls of the industry, disrupting the natural habitat and endangering local wildlife. Despite the clear evidence of encroachment, park and survey officials in the district have largely remained mute spectators, raising doubt over their commitment to protecting national property.

The case against Jagdamba Steel is clear. Filed with the Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) on February 4, 2024, it alleges the industry’s encroachment on over 25 bighas of park land. The anti-graft body promptly instructed the Department of National Parks and Wildlife to investigate. However, despite repeated follow-ups and inquiries, the response from both the park and Jagdamba Steel has been insufficient. This delay in action raises serious concerns about the integrity and independence of the officials involved. It is alarming to see that even the basic task of measuring the encroached land has been mired in bureaucratic red tape. Parsa National Park officials, including Information Officer Santosh Bhagat, have played the blame game, claiming that land measurement is not their job. On the other hand, the District Survey Office in Bara has stated they have not received any application to measure the land, further complicating the issue. This lack of coordination and accountability is unacceptable and demands immediate rectification.

The ecological impact of this encroachment is profound. The confinement of the Bhangre River by Jagdamba Steel has turned a once vibrant wetland into a dumping ground for industrial wastewater, threatening the survival of numerous bird species and wildlife dependent on this water source. The disruption of the river’s natural flow has severe implications for the park’s ecosystem, which must be urgently addressed. The government must act decisively. Immediate steps should be taken to retrieve the encroached land from Jagdamba Steel and restore it to Parsa National Park. Additionally, a thorough investigation must be conducted to identify and punish those responsible for facilitating this encroachment. The influence of powerful industries over regulatory bodies must be curtailed to protect our national heritage. The concerned government bodies owe it to the public and future generations to safeguard our natural resources and ensure that such blatant encroachments are not allowed.

 
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