So far only the forest area around Hallomajra village has been identified for the purpose. This follows a murder near Hallomajra on Monday night. UT Inspector-General of Police Kiran Bedi, when contacted, said this was being done to ensure better protection.The Forest Department will gain by this, said a senior police official. ``They will be able to better replant and densify their forests. Woods which attract pilferers can now be protected. Paths through the woods can be fenced on both sides now,'' the official added.

However, the UT Police will continue to look after the protection of the area till the Forest Department takes charge. Along with other police officials, Kiran Bedi spent nearly an hour at the murder site yesterday. A group of robbers armed with knives had attacked two brothers, residents of Ram Darbar, killing one of them and injuring the other. The officials observed that the crime was committed around 8:30 p.m, when darkness provided cover to the assailants. A large number of people - recently shifted from Ram Darbar to the Mauli Jagran colony rehabilitation complex - pass through the forest area every day.

A senior police official added that since Forest officials are well acquainted with the area, their involvement would improve surveillance of the area.

A forest official, when contacted, said he was unaware if the Department was had received the IGP's letter. He added forest staff are deployed in the forest areas to prevent trespass and check encroachments.