Illegal structures on NH-44: NHAI issues multiple eviction notices in Ramban, Udhampur districts

Banihal, Dec 10: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has intensified its crackdown on illegal occupations along the Jammu Srinagar National Highway by issuing multiple eviction notices to individuals found encroaching on highway land across the Ramban and Udhampur districts.

The action follows a periodical inspection carried out by Shubham Yadav, officer authorised by the Highway authorities, who confirmed the presence of unauthorized structures and access points at km 174 090, Sherbibi on NH-44.

According to official data, eviction notices have been served to a number of persons directing them to remove allegedly unauthorized tin sheds and temporary structures.

Officials further said that around 70 more individuals along the Udhampur-Banihal section of NH-44 were also issued similar notices after various encroachments were identified during the inspection drive.

Each notice has been issued under Section 26(2) of the Control of National Highways (Land and Traffic) Act, 2002, giving the recipients seven days to voluntarily remove the encroachments.

Affected persons are also allowed to file a representation within three days before the Project Director, NHAI PIU headquarters Ramban.

The notice further warns that non-compliance will lead to summary eviction, forcible removal of structures, and additional penalties under Section 26(6) of the Act.

Copies of the notices have been forwarded to the Regional Officer (J&K), Deputy Commissioner Ramban, and Senior Superintendent of Police Ramban for necessary follow-up action.

Officials said the ongoing anti-encroachment drive was aimed at improving highway safety, curbing unauthorised access points, and ensuring smooth traffic flow on the strategically vital Jammu Srinagar corridor.

When contacted, Project Director, NH-44 (Ramban HQ), Shubham Yadav, confirmed to Greater Kashmir that around 70 illegal encroachers across the Udhampur–Ramban–Banihal stretch were served notices.

He said that after the Supreme Court took cognizance of illegal occupations on national highways, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways directed NHAI authorities to act strictly against such violators.

Yadav added, “Temporary tin sheds and khokhas (kiosks) along the highway lure drivers to stop at unsafe points, often leading to accidents, particularly in the Ramban-Banihal sector.”