After declaring 812 acres in Aarey Milk Colony as forest land, the Maharashtra Forest Department has begun issuing eviction notices to individuals allegedly encroaching on the land. Those identified have been asked to either voluntarily remove their encroachments or submit documents proving rightful occupancy by August 3. If they fail to comply, the department has warned of a large-scale demolition drive.

Sources in the Forest Department told mid-day that 17 notices have been served so far. The alleged encroachments include farming, paddy cultivation, and the growing of fruits and vegetables on forest land. One of the notices, addressed to a tribal resident, reads: