· Fifteen more anti-poaching camps sought

· Government urged to recruit 270 forest guards

· Orders to clear encroachments issued

MYSORE: Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Ram Mohan Ray camped in what is known as the Veerappan area — M.M. Hills, Palar, Kollegal and other ranges — last week.

The visit was described as the first by an officer of the rank of Principal Chief Conservator of Forests to the M.M. Hills range, which was virtually out of bounds till the death of Veerappan. Mr. Ray's visit comes in the wake of a series of unconfirmed reports of small-time poachers operating in the area after the death of the bandit. There were also reports of naxalites gaining ground in the M.M. Hills range and using the dense forests as hideouts.

Sources in the Forest Department said a strong presence of forest guards is expected to help keep away unauthorised persons from the area.

Mr. Ray stayed in jungle camps and inspected forest areas, ascertained the morale of staff of the department, including guards, during the two-day visit.

He studied the ground realities and the problems of employees in the tough jungle terrain.

Speaking to The Hindu , Mr. Ray said he has sought additional anti-poaching camps for the range. "There are four or five such camps, but I have submitted a report for increasing the number to 15 or 20 for the region. The Government proposes to induct nearly 100 forest guards, but I want this number to be increased to 270," he added.

He stressed the importance of anti-poaching camps and said forest wealth is at risk from poachers because of a lack of guards. About the terrain and the forest range, Mr. Ray said the green cover is excellent but he noticed encroachments and issued instructions to get them cleared. The terrain is picturesque and ideal for trekking.

He said the Forest Department recently launched six "mystery trails". "Our guards will accompany trekkers, who will take them around the hideouts and areas where Veerappan and his gang used to operate. The department has received over 250 applications for the "mystery trails."