MDDA's Historic Anti-Encroachment Drive: Over 10,000 Bigha Cleared, 1,000+ Constructions Sealed in Dehradun
The Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA) has executed a landmark anti-encroachment campaign over the past three years, clearing more than 10,000 bigha of land from illegal occupations and sealing over 1,000 unauthorized constructions across Dehradun. Officials have hailed this initiative as the authority's most stringent, comprehensive, and decisive action against illegal construction and unauthorized plotting within its jurisdiction.
Creating an Atmosphere of Fear Among Violators
MDDA vice-chairperson Bansidhar Tiwari emphasized the historic scale of the drive, stating that it has not only set a precedent but also instilled a sense of fear among those involved in illegal activities and rule violations. "This action is not only historic in terms of scale but also created an atmosphere of fear among those involved in illegal activities and those who violate the rules," Tiwari remarked.
He further explained that illegal plotting constitutes more than just a legal breach; it represents a direct assault on urban planning, environmental protection, and public safety. The authority remains committed to taking firm action against individuals developing plots without approvals or in violation of prescribed norms.
Regular Identification and Strict Enforcement
Officials revealed that illegal constructions are being identified on a regular basis, with subsequent sealing and demolition carried out strictly in accordance with the law. MDDA secretary Mohan Singh Barnia highlighted that enforcement teams are actively monitoring the ground to curb illegal activities. "Our objective is to ensure planned development," Barnia stated, adding that strict measures will continue against those defying legal protocols.
Long-Term Impacts and Citizen Burden
The civic body pointed out that unauthorized colonies often lead to severe issues such as waterlogging, traffic congestion, and water scarcity, potentially triggering disaster-like situations in the future. Officials stressed that the long-term costs of such developments ultimately fall on ordinary citizens, prompting the authority to adopt a tough stance against illegal developers who mislead buyers and sell unauthorized plots.
Extensive Coverage Across Dehradun
The anti-encroachment drives were extensively carried out across numerous areas, including:
- Vikasnagar, Sahaspur, Selakui, Herbertpur
- Mehuwala Mafi, Majrigrant, Pokhri, Naugaon Manduwala
- Shimla Bypass Road, Premnagar, Sahastradhara Road
- Chhidarwala, Pitthuwala, Harbhawala, Dharmawala
- Dhaulas, Langha Road—including Telpura and Chini Mill Road
- Thano Road, Bhogpur, Ghamandpur, Bhaniyawala
- Ranipokhri, Lal Tappad, Kuanwala, Harrawala
- Balawala, Gularghati, Nakraunda, Nathuwala
- Mohkampur, Dudhli, Sherpur, the BF Camp area in Doiwala
- Raipur and Dharampur
Caution to Residents and Future Steps
Tiwari issued a stern warning to residents, urging them to avoid bypassing due process. He advised obtaining mandatory approvals from MDDA before purchasing land or undertaking construction, cautioning that failure to do so would make individuals solely responsible for any losses incurred.
This robust campaign underscores MDDA's dedication to fostering planned urban development, safeguarding environmental integrity, and ensuring public safety in Dehradun.
