ADA demolishes illegal colonies at Ajnala Road, Ram Tirath Road

The Amritsar Development Authority (ADA), in coordination with PUDA, on Thursday carried out a demolition drive targeting unauthorised colonies on the outskirts of the city. The action was taken in accordance with directives from the Punjab Government to curb unregulated urban sprawl and promote planned development.

Following instructions from ADA Chief Administrator Nitesh Kumar Jain, a team from the ADA’s Regulatory Wing, led by District Town Planner (Regulatory) Gursewak Singh Aulakh, launched the operation with support from police personnel of Thana Kamboh. The enforcement team demolished illegal structures in unauthorised colonies that were being developed illegally at Kamboh village on Ajnala Road and Gaunsabad village on Ram Tirath Road.

Officials said the action was initiated under the Punjab Apartment and Property Regulation Act (PAPRA), 1995, after prior notices had been served to the violators. Despite multiple warnings, the developers continued construction in defiance of regulations, forcing the authority to proceed with demolition. The department clarified that under the amended provisions of PAPRA (2024), those involved in developing illegal colonies could face imprisonment ranging from five to 10 years, along with fines between Rs 25 lakh and Rs 5 crore.

So far, the ADA’s Regulatory Wing has written to the police to register FIRs against 26 colonisers and builders involved in unauthorised developments across the district. Officials said regular inspections are being carried out to detect illegal colonies, serve notices, halt ongoing work and initiate legal proceedings through local police stations.

The ADA appealed to the public not to invest in plots located in unauthorised colonies lacking PUDA’s approval. It advised prospective buyers to verify official permissions before purchasing any property to avoid financial loss or legal trouble. The department also reminded citizens to obtain required building approvals from PUDA before commencing any construction within Amritsar district to ensure lawful and sustainable urban growth.

Amritsar