Tripura reports over 1,000 hectares of forest land encroachment
Aug 27, 2026
More than 1,000 hectares of forest land in Tripura have reportedly been encroached upon over the past three years, according to data presented by the Forest Department in the state Assembly on Thursday.
The department informed the House that a total of 1,008.282 hectares of forest land had been illegally occupied across different forest divisions during the period. The data was presented in response to questions related to forests and tourism.
According to the information placed before the Assembly, forest authorities have been taking steps to reclaim encroached land and prevent further illegal occupation. Officials inspect affected areas after receiving reports of encroachment and initiate legal action against those found occupying forest land.
The department said eviction notices and show-cause notices are being issued wherever necessary. Efforts are also being made to persuade encroachers to voluntarily vacate forest land.
In Sepahijala Forest Division, 37 cases have reportedly been registered against illegal cultivation and encroachment, while 28 eviction notices and five show-cause notices have been issued. Three offence reports have also been filed, and around two hectares of forest land have been recovered through eviction drives.
In Khowai Forest Division, 332 show-cause notices have been issued, of which 78 hearings have been completed. In South Forest Division, 216 eviction notices and an equal number of show-cause notices have been issued. In Gomati Forest Division, five cases have been registered along with 210 eviction notices and 210 show-cause notices. The Gomati Wildlife Sanctuary has also issued 34 show-cause notices.
The Forest Department further stated that regular patrolling and surveillance are being conducted to prevent fresh encroachments and strengthen forest protection. Steps have also been taken to strengthen Forest Protection Units by providing vehicles, computers, arms and ammunition and ensuring regular patrols.
The data presented in the Assembly highlights the continuing challenge of protecting Tripura’s forest resources from illegal encroachment and unauthorised cultivation.
