In a major crackdown on unplanned urban expansion and illegal colonies in the capital, Dehradun, the Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA) bulldozed approximately 77 bighas of land in the Doiwala area. The authority’s enforcement team launched a massive operation on Friday, demolishing construction projects in colonies being developed without authorization. This action by the MDDA is considered the largest crackdown on illegal land transactions to date. The authority has clarified that it is adopting a zero-tolerance policy against those who interfere with planned urban development.
*Illegal colony being developed on 65 bighas demolished*
A case of illegal plotting development on approximately 65 bighas of land by Gurpreet and Raja in the Markham Grant, Doiwala area, came to light. The inspection revealed that plots were being divided without authorization approval, and internal roads had been constructed and plot demarcations had been made for the purpose of developing the colony. The enforcement team arrived at the scene and demolished illegally constructed roads, demarcations, and other developments using JCB machines. Any future construction activity was immediately prohibited.
Action taken against 12 bighas of illegal plotting in the Kheri area*
In the same sequence, an illegal colony being developed by Ashok Pal and Verma on approximately 12 bighas of land in the Kheri-2, Sant Sagar Gurudwara Marg, and Major Shaheed Durga Marg Phatak Road areas also came under the authority’s action. Investigation revealed that the colony was being developed on the land without map approval. The MDDA team, acting in accordance with regulations, demolished all developments and issued a stern warning to the concerned individuals.
Strictness to protect the public from fraud*
According to MDDA officials, in cases of illegal plotting, land is sold to ordinary citizens by luring them with the promise of cheap plots, after which buyers face a lack of basic amenities such as roads, water, and electricity, and legal disputes. Keeping this in mind, the Authority is continuously conducting enforcement campaigns against unauthorized colonies. The action was conducted under the leadership of Assistant Engineer Pramod Mehra, with the Authority team including Junior Engineers Swati Kohli and Pravesh Nautiyal present.
Zero tolerance for illegal construction: Banshidhar Tiwari
MDDA Vice President Banshidhar Tiwari stated that strict action will continue against illegal plotting and construction activities in the Authority area. Those developing land without permission will not be spared under any circumstances. He appealed to the public to ensure the approval of the relevant layout from the Authority before purchasing any plot or property, to avoid future financial and legal losses.
Continuous monitoring: Mohan Singh Barniya
MDDA Secretary Mohan Singh Barniya stated that regular monitoring of illegal plotting is being carried out in the Authority area. Wherever land development or construction work is found without permission, immediate enforcement action is being taken. He said that ensuring safe and planned urban development is the priority of the authority and such campaigns will continue in future also.
