In one of the largest anti-encroachment operations in recent years, the Gurgaon administration has successfully reclaimed nearly 9.5 acres of prime government land belonging to the tourism department in Sohna. The operation involved the demolition of around 250 illegal structures spread across two unauthorised settlements — Peer Colony and Pahad Colony.
Details of the Encroached Land
The encroached land is located approximately 1 kilometre from the Gurugram-Alwar Road. Over the years, unauthorised residential settlements had developed on this land. Officials noted that nearly 100 of the structures were double-storeyed or multistoreyed buildings, indicating the scale of the encroachment.
Coordinated Multi-Agency Operation
The large-scale drive continued for two and a half days, from Wednesday evening to Friday evening. It was carried out through a coordinated effort involving the tourism department, Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA), Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG), and Haryana Police. Officials reported that the operation was completed peacefully, without any major law and order issues, despite the significant scale of the encroachment.
Describing the operation as one of the most challenging assignments undertaken by the administration, officials emphasised that the successful clearance sends “a strong message” against illegal encroachments. It reaffirms the government’s commitment to protecting public land and upholding the rule of law.
Legal Background and Court Rulings
Authorities stated that the action followed a series of court rulings that upheld the tourism department’s ownership of the land. The SDM court ruled in favour of the department in 2018, and subsequent legal proceedings, including orders passed in 2024, reaffirmed its claim. During field verification, officials found that occupants were unable to produce valid ownership documents, registered sale deeds, or legally enforceable agreements.
Public Outreach and Peaceful Execution
Officials credited extensive public outreach and dialogue with residents for the peaceful execution of the drive. Multiple meetings were held with local residents and community representatives. Regular announcements were made informing occupants about the legal status of the land and the proposed action. Residents were given time to vacate the premises and shift their belongings before demolition began.
Supervision and Security Arrangements
The operation was supervised by town planner RS Batth from GMDA, who was appointed duty magistrate and nodal officer for the drive. Nearly 200 police personnel were deployed under the supervision of DCP South Hitesh Yadav to ensure security and maintain order during the operation. Heavy machinery, including 10 earthmovers and two Poclain machines, along with water tankers, fire brigade vehicles, and more than 80 labourers, was engaged for demolition and debris clearance.
Community Concerns and Expected Benefits
Officials noted that local residents had repeatedly raised concerns regarding alleged criminal and illegal activities operating from the encroached settlement. The removal of the illegal structures is expected to improve public safety and restore confidence in law enforcement. The reclaimed land will now be secured and used for its intended purpose by the tourism department.
