Forest in Pathibhara encroached

By Chandra Pandak, Taplejung, Oct. 12: The national forest in the Pathibhara area, a famous pilgrimage site in Taplejung, has been facing encroachment, with private houses and sheds, public structures and various development projects contributing to the loss of forest land.

Although exact figures are not available, a large area of forest land in Pathibhara has been encroached upon. According to locals, encroachment on national forest and government land began more than three decades ago and continues to this day. 

Recently, encroachment has been reported in Kaflepati, Baludanda and Guranse, among other locations in the area.

The affected sites lie along the trekking route to Pathibhara Temple in Phurumbu, Ward No. 10, and Phawakhola, Ward No. 11, of Phungling Municipality. 

The encroached areas fall within Mayampatal Community Forest and Pathibhara Simbu Community Forest. Houses and sheds are being built by occupying forest and public land along the trail.

Land on both sides of the route, from Kaflepati to the area below Mathillo Phedi, is being occupied. In some places, houses and sheds have already been built, while elsewhere the land is being levelled, stone walls are being erected, and wooden beams and poles are being installed in preparation for construction. Wooden stakes and ropes have also been used to mark plots for proposed structures at numerous locations.