Jammu, June 17: In a major anti-encroachment drive, the Jammu Development Authority (JDA), in coordination with the District Administration, reclaimed nearly four kanals of prime government land located opposite Mangal Market and behind Vaishnavi Dham near Jammu Railway Station. The land is estimated to be worth around ₹10 crore.
According to officials, the land had been under unauthorized occupation for several years. Several dhabas and commercial establishments were allegedly being operated illegally by two individuals without any lawful permission. The occupants had earlier approached the High Court seeking regularization of their possession. However, following the Court’s directions, the competent authority examined the case and concluded that the occupation was unauthorized and could not be legalized under existing laws. Consequently, orders were issued to remove the encroachments and restore the land to JDA.
During the operation, authorities vacated and demolished more than 30 unauthorized structures, including dhabas and commercial units. Officials stated that these encroachments had been a major cause of traffic congestion in the Railway Station area due to excessive vehicular movement and roadside parking, often creating bottlenecks for commuters, pedestrians, and railway passengers.
Authorities also noted that the encroached area had repeatedly been flagged for unlawful activities that posed concerns for public safety. Additionally, food at some of the dhabas was reportedly being prepared under unhygienic conditions.
JDA Vice Chairman Dr. Rupesh Kumar emphasized that public land is a public asset and must be protected from illegal occupation. He reiterated the Authority’s commitment to safeguarding public property, promoting planned urban development, and taking strict action against encroachments that affect civic infrastructure.
JDA has appealed to citizens to refrain from encroaching on government land and to cooperate with authorities in preserving public property and maintaining orderly urban development.
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