DEHRADUN: The Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA) reported on Wednesday that over 150 bighas of illegally plotted land have been cleared in the past month. This initiative also involved sealing more than a dozen unauthorized multi-storey buildings, particularly in regions such as Bhaniyawala, Haridwar Bypass Road, and Doiwala.
MDDA Vice Chairman Bansidhar Tiwari stated that the increase in unauthorized plots and encroachments led the body to initiate an extensive demolition and sealing campaign. “In the past month, we’ve demolished around 150 bighas of illegal plots and sealed numerous constructions, including multi-storey buildings, in places like Rishikesh,” he said.
In the Jhabrawala area of Doiwala, 18 bighas were cleared, while 10 to 12 bighas were cleared in Dandi village of Ranipokhari. An additional 25 bighas of illegal plotting were removed in Buxarwala, Bhaniyawala, and 40 bighas were cleared near the Sai Temple along Haridwar Road in Dehradun.
More actions were taken in Sheeshambara and Rupnagar Badripur, where 10 bighas and 5 bighas were demolished, respectively. Sealing operations were also executed at various locations, including Majri Grant, Haridwar Road, Nehru Colony, Sahastradhara Road, and the Shimla Bypass Hinduwala area.
The most significant actions occurred in Rishikesh, with more than a dozen multi-storey buildings sealed in Nirmal Bagh, Virbhadra Road, Koyal Grant, and other areas under MDDA’s governance, officials reported.
Tiwari emphasized that illegal plotting and construction will not be tolerated under any circumstances. These measures are part of a wider policy aimed at ensuring planned development in the state, with ongoing future efforts expected.
Officials indicated that several more sites have been identified for further action. The MDDA has also urged the public to verify land ownership and approvals before acquiring plots, warning against engaging with land mafias.
