Jaipur: Internet services were temporarily suspended and more than 3,000 police personnel deployed across Jaipur on Monday as the Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) launched a major anti-encroachment and demolition drive in the city’s Jagatpura area. The operation is part of a long-pending infrastructure project aimed at widening Nandpuri Road, a key corridor connecting several residential and commercial areas of the Rajasthan capital.
The large-scale action comes amid heightened security concerns, with authorities taking precautionary measures to maintain law and order and prevent the spread of misinformation during the demolition process.
Why Is the Demolition Drive Being Conducted?
According to officials, the drive is linked to the widening of a 1.5-kilometre stretch of Nandpuri Road, which runs parallel to a railway line in Jagatpura.
The road currently has a width of approximately 25 to 30 feet, whereas the approved master plan provides for an 80-foot-wide road corridor. Authorities say several encroachments and unauthorized constructions have prevented the project from being implemented for years.
The widening project is expected to significantly improve traffic flow and connectivity in one of Jaipur’s fastest-growing urban zones.
Five Religious Structures Marked for Removal
One of the most sensitive aspects of the operation is the demolition of five religious structures located within the designated road alignment.
The structures include:
- One mosque
- Two temples
- One satsang hall
- One mazar (shrine)
Officials stated that these structures fall within the sanctioned road boundary and have been obstructing the widening project.
According to the administration, notices were issued well in advance, and the concerned stakeholders were provided sufficient time to voluntarily remove the structures before enforcement action began.
Earlier Encroachment Removal Drive
JDA officials revealed that an earlier anti-encroachment operation conducted on May 22 had already cleared 134 encroachments along the same road corridor.
Following that action, religious bodies, property owners, and other occupants were granted additional time to comply with notices and relocate structures voluntarily. However, with the deadline now over, authorities proceeded with direct demolition measures.
Deputy Inspector General of the JDA Vigilance Wing, Anand Sharma, stated that the administration had exhausted all procedural requirements before initiating the current drive.
Internet Services Suspended as Precaution
To prevent rumours, misinformation, and potentially inflammatory content from spreading on social media platforms, the Jaipur district administration temporarily suspended internet services in affected areas.
Officials said the decision was purely precautionary and aimed at maintaining public order during the sensitive operation.
Authorities also warned that strict action would be taken against individuals found circulating false information, provocative messages, or communal content capable of disturbing peace.
Massive Security Arrangements Across the City
Given the sensitivity of the operation, authorities deployed one of the largest security arrangements seen in the city in recent months.
Security measures include:
- Deployment of over 3,000 police personnel
- 12 companies of the Rajasthan Armed Constabulary (RAC)
- Additional forces from Jaipur, Kota, and Bharatpur ranges
- Increased surveillance in sensitive localities
- Continuous monitoring of social media platforms
- Traffic and crowd management teams on standby
Police officials said the objective is to ensure that the demolition drive proceeds peacefully without any untoward incidents.
Road Widening Project to Benefit Nearly 50 Colonies
The Jaipur Development Authority has described the project as a critical infrastructure initiative that will benefit thousands of residents.
Once completed, the widened road is expected to:
- Improve connectivity between Jagatpura and Malviya Nagar
- Ease access to Pradhan Marg and Apex Circle
- Reduce congestion on Hare Krishna Marg
- Improve emergency vehicle movement
- Support future urban development in the area
- Enhance overall traffic management
Officials estimate that nearly 50 residential colonies will directly benefit from the project.
Residents Advised to Expect Restrictions
Authorities have advised residents to anticipate temporary movement restrictions, traffic diversions, and a heavy security presence in and around Jagatpura during the course of the operation.
Commuters have been urged to use alternative routes wherever possible to avoid delays.
Political Reactions and Community Concerns
The demolition drive has sparked political debate and concerns among certain community groups.
Congress MLA Rafiq Khan questioned the timing and urgency of the action, arguing that issues involving religious structures should be resolved through dialogue, consultation, and consensus-building.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining communal harmony and avoiding actions that could create social tensions.
Meanwhile, representatives associated with the mosque and shrine slated for demolition have objected to the move, alleging that the structures were being unfairly targeted. Some community organisations have stated that they intend to pursue legal remedies while continuing to oppose the action through peaceful means.
Administration Reiterates Commitment to Lawful Action
Officials have maintained that the anti-encroachment drive is being carried out strictly in accordance with approved urban planning regulations and court-sanctioned procedures.
The administration has reiterated that the objective is not to target any particular community or institution but to implement a long-pending public infrastructure project intended to improve mobility, reduce congestion, and facilitate future urban growth in Jaipur.
