The Mussoorie-Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA) once again took a tough stand against illegal constructions, launching a massive sealing drive in the Rishikesh area. The authority’s team identified and sealed constructions being carried out without map approval and in violation of regulations at various locations within the authority’s jurisdiction. During this drive, illegal constructions were closed in Nirmal Bagh Block-B, Pashulok Displaced Area, and around Haridwar Road.
The authority has sent a clear message that any construction that violates the rules will not be tolerated. The drive was carried out peacefully in the presence of police. Officials stated that this action will continue, and strict action will also be taken against constructions that have previously been served notices.
*Sealing Drive from Nirmal Bagh to Haridwar Road*
Under this special drive launched by the MDDA, the first illegal construction being carried out by Amar in Street No. 10, Nirmal Bagh Block-B, Rishikesh, was identified and sealed. This construction was being carried out without an approved map and necessary permissions. Subsequently, the illegal constructions made by Sumit Malhotra and Baba Ram Mohan in Gali No. 11, Nirmal Block-B, Pashulok Displaced Area, were sealed again. According to authority officials, the construction work continued despite prior warnings, prompting the harsh action. The illegal construction made by Jai Chauhan in Gali No. 10, Nirmal Bagh Block-B, Pashulok, Rishikesh, was also sealed again. Officials clarified that illegal constructions will not be regularized under any circumstances and punitive action may be proposed under the law. Similarly, the illegal constructions made by Alok and Sanjay Goyal near Purani Chungi, Haridwar Road, Rishikesh, were also sealed. This area is considered commercially important, and unauthorized construction there was expected to adversely impact traffic and civic amenities.
*Strict action taken in the presence of officials, campaign to continue*
The entire action was carried out in the presence of Assistant Engineer Abhishek Bhardwaj, Junior Engineer Poonam Saklani, supervisors, and police. The officials arrived on site, inspected the construction site, and completed the sealing process as per regulations. Authority officials stated that illegal construction not only impacts the town planning system but can also pose future disaster and security risks. Especially in a pilgrimage and tourist city like Rishikesh, uncontrolled construction causes traffic congestion, parking problems, and adversely impacts environmental balance. The MDDA has appealed to the public to obtain map approval and necessary permissions from the authority before beginning any construction. Those who construct without permission will face sealing, demolition, and legal action.
The authority has also clarified that in the coming days, special surveys will be conducted in the authority area to identify illegal constructions and ensure prompt action against them. This strict action taken in the Rishikesh area clearly demonstrates that the MDDA is now implementing a zero-tolerance policy against illegal constructions. The administration’s message is clear: follow the rules, otherwise be prepared for strict action.
*Statement by Vice President Banshidhar Tiwari*
Banshidhar Tiwari stated that illegal constructions will not be tolerated in the Mussoorie-Dehradun Development Authority area under any circumstances. He clarified that the authority only issues notices and provides adequate opportunity to seal and other punitive actions. Despite this, if anyone ignores the rules, strict action becomes necessary. He added that unplanned construction in a religious and tourist city like Rishikesh could become a major problem in the future. Therefore, the authority is implementing a “zero-tolerance” policy. He appealed to the public to obtain map approval before building construction, to avoid unnecessary action and financial loss.
*Statement by Secretary Mohan Singh Barniya*
Mohan Singh Barniya stated that inspections are being conducted continuously in the authority area and action is being taken against identified illegal constructions as per the rules. He stated that those builders who had previously been issued notices and still continued work have been re-sealed. He warned that strict action will be taken against those who violate the rules in the future.
