The Jammu Development Authority (JDA) executed a demolition drive on November 20, 2024, to clear land for the construction of 208 one-BHK flats designated for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) in Lower Roop Nagar, Jammu. The JDA has announced its intention to persist in its efforts against encroachers in the area.
In a statement clarifying its actions, the JDA explained that the land, measuring 25 kanals and earmarked for the construction of the EWS flats—which will include one bedroom, a hall, a kitchen, and a bathroom—was under illegal occupation. Reports indicated that some of the encroachers had rented out kiosks and dome tenements, charging rent from the vulnerable public.
Prior to the demolition, the JDA had floated a tender for the construction of the EWS flats. However, upon inspection, the land was found to contain 12 abandoned dome quarters and 22 kiosks, all illegally occupied by individuals who had previously been rehabilitated in areas such as Purkhoo, Muthi, and Jagti. Some of these occupants were reportedly renting out spaces to outsiders and locals on a monthly basis, making it necessary to clear the structures to enable construction of the EWS flats.
As per procedural requirements, the JDA issued eviction notices under Section 4 of the J&K Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorized Occupants) Act of 1988 on January 20, 2024. Shopkeepers occupying these kiosks were informed about the proposed development project and requested to vacate the premises. Following the notice, some shopkeepers requested a one-month extension to remove their belongings, with several voluntarily relocating their shops as they recognized the need to vacate. A few shopkeepers even submitted affidavits expressing their intention to vacate the land by February 5, 2024.
After allowing sufficient time—10 months—for compliance, the JDA proceeded with the demolition on November 20, 2024. All illegal occupants were notified to vacate, and the JDA assisted them in safely removing their belongings. It was noted that only 5 or 6 shops contained items, while the remainder were abandoned.
The demographic of encroachers included a mix of individuals from various communities, including non-domiciles of J&K. The JDA emphasized that its actions were not based on caste or community considerations. Additionally, some laborers were reportedly accommodated on a monthly rental basis within the dome quarters by the encroachers.
Moving forward, the JDA will continue to conduct demolition drives against encroachers to ensure land is available for government infrastructure projects and to serve the needs of the public.
