Jaipur, June 8: The Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) on Monday launched one of its largest anti-encroachment drives near the Nandpuri Underpass in Malviya Nagar, triggering unprecedented security measures across parts of the city. Mobile internet services, social media platforms and bulk SMS services were suspended for 24 hours, while more than 3,000 police personnel were deployed to maintain law and order.
The operation aims to widen a 1.5-km road running parallel to the railway line from its current width of 25-30 feet to the sanctioned width of 80 feet. Authorities said the project will improve connectivity to Malviya Nagar, Pradhan Marg and Apex Circle and benefit nearly 50 residential colonies.
As part of the drive, five religious structures located within the road widening corridor were identified for removal. These include one mosque, two temples, one shrine (mazar) and one satsang hall. Authorities had previously removed 134 encroachments along the same stretch on May 22 and had provided additional time to the concerned religious bodies to comply with the notices.
Key Developments
11:31 AM: JDA officials said more than 100 small and large illegal structures falling within the 80-foot road boundary had been demolished during the operation.
11:22 AM: Section 144 was imposed in the area, prohibiting gatherings of five or more people at one location to prevent any disturbance to public order.
10:50 AM: The rear portion of the Noorani Mosque was demolished under heavy security as part of the road-widening exercise.
10:33 AM: Officials reported that the situation remained completely peaceful and that local residents were cooperating with authorities.
10:31 AM: Additional Superintendent of Police Saroj Dhayal stated that approximately 10 to 12 illegal structures would be removed as part of the day's operation.
10:28 AM: Jaipur International Airport announced that free Wi-Fi services would continue despite the internet shutdown, providing relief to travelers.
10:15 AM: Authorities advised passengers travelling to the airport to leave early and carry printed copies of tickets and travel documents due to internet-related disruptions.
10:12 AM: Officials warned that app-based taxi services such as Ola and Uber, along with airline mobile applications, could face disruptions because of the internet suspension.
10:05 AM: Electricity supply was temporarily disconnected in the operation zone as part of security arrangements. Authorities also sought to restrict the immediate circulation of photos and videos from the site.
09:58 AM: Drone cameras were deployed for aerial surveillance and real-time monitoring of the entire area.
09:50 AM: Police repeatedly appealed to residents not to gather on rooftops and advised them to remain indoors.
09:41 AM: Security personnel were stationed on rooftops throughout the locality to monitor the situation and maintain order.
09:33 AM: Roads leading to the operation zone were sealed, and entry of unauthorized persons and vehicles was prohibited.
09:21 AM: The anti-encroachment drive formally began under heavy security presence.
09:00 AM onwards: Senior police and administrative officials remained on-site to supervise the operation, while multiple JCB machines were deployed simultaneously to clear structures identified within the road