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Forest Department denies charge

Special Correspondent

THIRUVANATHAPURAM: The Forest Department has denied reports that it is hindering development of Sabarimala.

The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests said here on Monday that the department had not made any demand, either before the Government or the Supreme Court, that the land allocated for development be taken back.

It had only pointed out failures in fulfilling the conditions set by the Union Government while carrying out the development works. This was because disciplined construction was a must for protection and sustenance of the Periyar Tiger Reserve. He said the Forest Department was devoted to providing facilities to pilgrims proposed under the master plan.

It had not created any hindrance to the preparations for the pilgrimage season. He recalled that the department had recommended the diversion of land needed for implementation of the master plan. The land had been released to the Travancore Devaswom Board subsequently with the permission of the Supreme Court, subject to conditions stipulated by the court.

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Forest Department denies charge

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