Ludhiana, August 20: The Greater Ludhiana Area Development Authority (GLADA) on Tuesday demolished four “unauthorised” colonies in Jandiali, Bholapur and Sahibana villages as part of a crackdown on illegal development. Officials said the demolition drive was carried out by GLADA’s regulatory wing with support from a duty magistrate and police teams. Roads, buildings and other structures were removed during the operation.
According to GLADA officials, developers had continued construction at the sites despite being served notices. Additional chief administrator-3 Sandeep Kumar said the authority is determined to stop such colonies from taking root. “The idea is to stop unauthorised colonies right at the start. We are planning more demolition drives and strict enforcement to protect people from fraud,” Kumar said.
He warned that many developers lure buyers with low rates while concealing the fact that such colonies are not approved. “These colonies will never get basic services like water, sewer or electricity. People must be careful before buying property,” he added. GLADA has also advised buyers to check details of approved and regularised colonies through its official website — www.glada.gov.in — where maps and lists are available.
In addition to demolition, officials said FIRs have been recommended against developers of the unauthorised colonies to ensure strict legal action.
Separately, the Municipal Corporation’s (MC) tehbazaari wing removed about 20 temporary encroachments around Buddha Nullah on Tajpur Road on Tuesday. The drive, conducted under the supervision of MC commissioner Aaditya Dachalwal and zonal commissioner Neeraj Jain, involved teams from all four zones led by inspectors Vipan Handa, Sunil Kumar, Sanjeet and Kush.
During the operation, kiosks and material were confiscated, and encroachers were issued warnings. Civic officials said field staff have been directed to maintain regular checks to prevent re-emergence of these encroachments in the future.
