JDA Reclaims Prime Land Near Jammu Railway Station, Demolishes 30 Illegal Structures

Jammu, June 17: The Jammu Development Authority (JDA) on Wednesday demolished more than 30 illegal structures near the Jammu railway station and reclaimed around half an acre of prime land worth nearly Rs 10 crore during an anti-encroachment drive, officials said.

The early morning operation, carried out in coordination with the district administration, targeted unauthorised commercial establishments, including dhabas and shops, built on encroached land opposite Mangal Market, behind Vaishnavi Dham and close to the railway station.

Officials said the land had remained under illegal occupation for several years, with numerous dhabas and commercial units allegedly operated by two individuals.

The occupants had approached the High Court seeking regularisation of their possession. However, following the court’s directions, the competent authority examined the case and ruled that the occupation was unauthorised and impermissible under law, leading to orders for removal of the encroachments and restoration of the land to the JDA.

During the drive, over 30 unauthorised structures were vacated and razed, officials said.

They added that the encroachments had become a major cause of traffic congestion in the busy railway station area, as heavy vehicular movement and roadside parking frequently created bottlenecks for commuters, pedestrians and railway passengers.

Authorities also cited repeated reports of unlawful activities around the encroached site that posed public safety concerns. They further alleged that food at the illegally operated dhabas was being prepared in unhygienic conditions.

JDA Vice Chairman Rupesh Kumar said public land is a public trust and must be protected from illegal occupation. He reiterated the authority’s commitment to safeguarding public assets, ensuring planned urban development and taking strict action against encroachments affecting civic infrastructure. (Agencies)