Over 30 illegal structures demolished as JDA reclaims prime land in Jammu

The forest department and anti-encroachment police have cleared alleged illegal settlements on forest land in Jammu. File | Photo credit: PTI

“The Jammu Development Authority (JDA) on Wednesday (June 17, 2026) launched a demolition drive near the Jammu railway station that cleared more than 30 illegal structures and reclaimed disturbed land worth ₹10 crore,” officials said.

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“Early in the morning, the drive targeted unauthorized business units, including dhabas and shops, occupying prime city land,” officials said. “JDA teams in coordination with the district administration acquired half an acre of prime land opposite Mangal market, behind Vaishnavi Dham and near Jammu railway station,” they said.

“The land has been illegally occupied for several years with a number of dhabas and commercial establishments illegally run by two individuals,” they added. The residents had previously appealed to the High Court to legalize their property.

As directed by the court, the competent authority reviewed the matter and concluded that the encroachment was unauthorized and legally impermissible, after which orders were issued to remove the encroachments and return the land to the JDA.

“More than 30 unauthorized structures were abandoned and demolished during the operation,” officials said. They said the interventions have contributed to persistent traffic congestion in the railway station area due to heavy vehicular movement and roadside parking, often causing disruption to commuters, pedestrians and rail passengers.

“The authorities have also repeatedly pointed out illegal activities around the affected area, which have affected public safety, while food in the dhabas was being prepared in unsanitary conditions,” they said.

JDA Vice-Chairman Rupesh Kumar said that public land is a public trust and must be protected from illegal encroachment, underscoring the authority’s commitment to protect public property, plan development and take decisive action against encroachments affecting urban infrastructure.

Published – 17 Jun 2026 11:51 IST