The Bokaro district administration has worked out a plan to develop a natural forest cover outside the town over 103 acres of forest land which was cleared of encroachment last week on the direction of chief secretary Raj Bala Verma (IAS:1983:JH). The evacuated land is on the foot of Satanpur hills. Officials believe that turning the reclaimed land into a forest may prevent its future encroachment, besides beautifying the area. DC Rai Mahimapat Ray (IAS:2011:JH) is said to be in talks with consultants in Delhi in this regard. If his plans work out, the reclaimed land may have a muddy trail and a pond - ideal for walkers; gazebos could also be constructed to enable people to rest and chit chat. Ray stated,"There is no plan to develop the spot like a park, but to create a forest where trees and bushes grow naturally. The blend of hill and forest will make it a scenic spot. Besides, the developed green cover will be good for the environment. The plantation on the land will be started soon in the rainy season." However, the project would need to be protected - at least for the next five years - against cattle herders who leave their animals free to graze on forest land.