The Forest Department has reclaimed 42.72 hectares of ecologically significant land from a private tea estate in Kolukkumalai region of Idukki, Kerala. This action was taken under the Kerala Private Forests (Vesting and Assignment) Act, aimed at preserving area’s unique biodiversity.
Historically, the land had been under control of Harrisons Malayalam Limited (HML). In 1975, the Forest Department initially seized 210.89 hectares from the company. However,HML contested this decision, leading to a protracted legal battle that culminated in a 1987 High Court ruling . The court ordered the return of 168.72 hectares to HML, allowing the Forest Department to retain remaining 42.72 hectares. Although the land was designated as a reserve forest in 2001, it remained in HML's possession until recently.
With the recent resurvey of the area, Forest Department took steps to formally reclaim land . T.D. Arun Kumar, Devikulam Range Officer,explained that a special team was formed under the direction of Munnar DFO Saju Varghese. This team,led by Harrison Sasi,the Chinnakkanal Section Forest Officer, worked diligently to locate the necessary survey numbers and land details.
After extensive efforts, the team successfully traced the relevant documents and verified land's details. Following this,officials convened a meeting with representatives from HML and Taluk Surveyor to finalize boundaries and survey numbers . The formal transfer of the land from HML to the Forest Department was completed, effectively removing the property from the company's title deeds.
This reclaimed land is not only ecologically vital but also situated near Kolukkumalai, popular tourist destination. Previously, a tent-camping operation,touted as the highest elevation tent camp in the state,was conducted on the site. However,operations ceased when Forest Department began its takeover .
The 42.72-hectare area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including habitats for wild elephants and Nilgiri marten. It features shola forests, natural grasslands,and eucalyptus plantations, along with rare mushrooms. The reclamation of this land marks a significant step in the conservation efforts within the region .
