He noted that residents of nearby settlements annually appeal to the authorities with a request to change the status of this territory.
“Local residents do not engage in agriculture; their existence depends on forest resources. According to current legislation, construction in the reserve is prohibited. However, private individuals have already built baths and entertainment facilities there. There have been cases where land plots were transferred into private ownership. There has been no response to these violations. Despite the prohibitions, some citizens engage in fishing, timber harvesting, and berry picking. People are asking to change the status of the reserve to a natural park,” he added.
During the meeting, information was also announced about the creation of a commission that will work on revising the status of the reserve to a national park.
A deputy criticized the actions of the responsible authorities, who do not show activity in addressing the problems of local residents living near the reserve.
