JAMMU: The Jammu Development Authority (JDA) in coordination with the District Administration, reclaimed approximately four kanals of prime land opposite Mangal Market, behind Vaishnavi Dham, near Jammu Railway Station, in a major anti-encroachment operation on Wednesday. The land is estimated to be worth around ₹10 crore.

The JDA land had allegedly remained under unauthorised occupation for several years, with a number of dhabas and commercial establishments illegally operated without lawful authority by two individuals. The occupants had earlier approached the High Court seeking regularisation of their possession. Pursuant to the Court's directions, the competent authority examined the matter and concluded that the occupation was unauthorised and impermissible under law, following which orders were issued for removal of the encroachments and restoration of the land to JDA.

During the operation, more than 30 unauthorised structures including dhabas and commercial units, were vacated and demolished. The encroachments had contributed to persistent traffic congestion in the Railway Station area due to heavy vehicular movement and roadside parking, frequently causing bottlenecks for commuters, pedestrians and railway passengers. Authorities had also repeatedly flagged unlawful activities around the encroached area that affected public safety, while food at the dhabas was being prepared in unhygienic conditions.

JDA Vice Chairman Dr Rupesh Kumar stated that public land is a public trust and must be safeguarded from illegal occupation, reiterating the Authority's commitment to protecting public assets, planned development and firm action against encroachments affecting urban infrastructure. JDA appealed to citizens to refrain from encroaching upon government land and to cooperate in preserving public property.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇