The Department of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) in Gurgaon has demolished over 7,600 illegal extensions of houses that encroached upon the right of way (ROW) in licensed colonies. The drive, conducted over five days, targeted 17 major colonies following government directives issued on April 16, 2026.
DLF Colonies Lead in Violations
According to officials, DLF 1 and DLF 2 recorded the highest number of encroachments, with 1,393 and 1,384 violations respectively. Together, these two colonies accounted for more than 2,700 cases. Palam Vihar followed with over 1,100 violations. Other colonies with significant encroachments include Sushant Lok 3 (536), South City 1 (523), Ardee City and part of Sushant Lok 1 (434), and Sushant Lok 2 (290).
Common Types of Encroachments
Urban planners involved in the operation noted a long-standing pattern of gradual encroachment on public land, particularly along internal colony roads meant for free movement and emergency access. The most common violations included fencing, ramps, steps, platforms, guard rooms, boundary walls, gates, hoardings, tin sheds, parking sheds, and illegal commercial kiosks. In DLF 1 and 2 alone, over 1,500 cases of fencing, ramps, and platforms were recorded, along with more than 450 guard rooms. In Palam Vihar, the pattern differed, with 220 cases of boundary wall and gate encroachments, and over 1,100 instances of grilles and fencing.
Impact on Smaller Colonies
Mid-sized and smaller colonies such as Rosewood City, Mayfield Gardens, Nirvana Country, and Uppal Southend also reported violations, though in lower numbers. These included porta cabins, storage units, temporary sheds, kiosks, and footpath encroachments, often linked to commercial use of residential properties. In sectors 47 and 48, including Malibu Towne and Vipul World, officials removed metal barricading, illegal steps, and ramps.
Reclamation of Public Space
Officials stated that the removal of encroachments has improved road usability, with approximately 216 kilometers of internal roads reclaimed across colonies. In many areas, residents had gradually extended private boundaries into public space, narrowing roads, blocking footpaths, and restricting emergency access. A senior official said, "The objective is to restore original road width and ensure smooth movement within colonies. Encroachments not only inconvenience residents but also pose safety risks."
Ongoing Enforcement and Future Plans
Alongside the demolition drive, authorities have initiated action against unauthorized use of stilt floors, which are often converted into commercial or residential spaces in violation of building norms. Officials warned that repeat violations would face stricter legal action. Reclaimed spaces would be maintained in coordination with Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) to prevent re-encroachment. Urban experts emphasized that sustained monitoring and community participation are essential for long-term compliance. "Encroachment is often gradual and normalized over time. Without consistent vigilance, the situation can revert," an urban planner said. This large-scale operation marks one of the most extensive efforts to reclaim public space within licensed colonies, though officials acknowledged it is just the start of a longer enforcement cycle.
