Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir's Samba district on Wednesday demolished several illegal structures built on government land at a location notorious for drug peddling and abuse. The operation, carried out by the district administration in coordination with police and revenue departments, targeted a hotspot that had become a hub for illicit drug activities.
Demolition Drive Targets Drug Hub
The demolition drive focused on a patch of government land in the outskirts of Samba town, where illegal constructions had mushroomed over the years. Officials said the structures were used as hideouts by drug peddlers and addicts, posing a serious law and order challenge. The area had been identified as a major drug hotspot in the district, with repeated complaints from local residents about suspicious activities.
Coordinated Action by Multiple Agencies
The operation involved a joint team of the district administration, police, and revenue department officials. Heavy machinery was used to raze the unauthorized buildings, including makeshift shops and residential units. The authorities had earlier issued notices to the occupants, asking them to vacate the premises voluntarily. However, when they failed to comply, the administration proceeded with the demolition.
District Magistrate Samba, Anuradha Gupta, said the drive was part of a larger campaign to reclaim government land and curb illegal activities. "We have zero tolerance for encroachments and drug-related crimes. This operation sends a strong message that government land will not be allowed to be used for unlawful purposes," she added.
Reclaiming Government Land
The demolished structures were built on land belonging to the state government, which had been illegally occupied for several years. The authorities have now taken possession of the land, which will be used for public purposes. The district administration has also vowed to intensify surveillance in the area to prevent any fresh encroachments.
Local residents welcomed the action, saying it would help restore peace and security in the neighborhood. "This area had become a den of drug addicts and peddlers. We were scared to step out after dark. The demolition has brought relief to us," said a resident who did not wish to be named.
Ongoing Crackdown on Drug Menace
The Samba district has been grappling with a rising drug problem, with several cases of drug peddling and abuse reported in recent months. The administration has launched a multi-pronged strategy to tackle the issue, including strict enforcement of laws, awareness campaigns, and rehabilitation programs for addicts. The demolition drive is seen as a significant step in this direction, as it targets the infrastructure supporting illegal drug trade.
Police have also increased patrolling and set up checkpoints in the area to deter criminal activities. Officials said that more such operations would be conducted in other parts of the district to ensure that government land is not misused.
