YEIDA Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Activities with Ex-Servicemen Deployment
In a significant move to bolster enforcement efforts, the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) has ramped up its operations across multiple sectors. The authority has deployed close to 100 ex-servicemen to curb illegal mining and unauthorised construction within its jurisdiction, marking a robust step towards maintaining law and order in the industrial area.
Strategic Deployment Across Key Sectors
Officials revealed that 85 retired servicemen were already stationed in critical sectors, including 18, 20, 21, 22D, 22E, 24, 24A, 28, 29, 32, and 33, to monitor and prevent illegal mining activities. To further strengthen this initiative, YEIDA has added 10 more retired defence personnel in sectors 5, 8, 8D, 9, and 11, bringing the total strength to nearly 100. This deployment aims to enhance surveillance and ensure swift action against violators.
Enhanced Coordination and Real-Time Monitoring
To facilitate better coordination among departments, YEIDA will create a dedicated WhatsApp group for real-time information sharing. This platform is designed to streamline communication, enabling quicker responses for demolition drives and tighter monitoring of illegal activities. The move is expected to improve efficiency in enforcement operations.
Leadership and Protocol Implementation
Additional CEO Rajesh Kumar chaired a meeting with the deployed personnel on Saturday, briefing them on the enforcement strategy. Under the new protocol, daily reports will be submitted to the local police and the heads of YEIDA's project and land records departments. Based on these inputs, the concerned lekhpal and tehsildar will initiate proceedings under Section 10 of the UP Industrial Area Development Act, ensuring the demolition of illegal structures as per established rules.
Area lekhpals and project engineers have been directed to remain vigilant and will be held accountable for any illegal construction in their jurisdictions. This accountability measure is intended to deter negligence and promote proactive monitoring.
Strengthening Patrolling and Surveillance
To bolster patrolling efforts, YEIDA has added one new Bolero vehicle to its existing fleet of four. The personnel will remain mobile across the notified area, maintaining constant surveillance on illegal excavation and construction activities. The authority's security wing has also been tasked with initiating action against unauthorised construction, ensuring a comprehensive approach to enforcement.
Historical Context and Impact
Officials noted that in the past three years, YEIDA conducted nearly 30 major drives, reclaiming land worth approximately Rs 7,500 crore. They highlighted that land mafias became active across the Jewar–Mathura–Aligarh belt following the announcement of the airport and rapid industrial growth, which significantly pushed up land prices. This enforcement drive is a response to these challenges, aiming to protect public assets and maintain orderly development.
The initiative underscores YEIDA's commitment to combating illegal activities and ensuring sustainable growth in the region. With enhanced manpower, technology, and protocols, the authority is poised to make a substantial impact in curbing unauthorised construction and mining.
