The order was addressed to the SDMs of Sadar, Sundernagar, Balh and Balichowki subdivisions, emphasising strict compliance with Government of India guidelines regarding unauthorised occupations along the national highways. The administration has also sought action-taken reports from the officials concerned within seven days.
According to the communication, earlier letters issued on February 2 and April 16 regarding the same matter had not received the required reports from field offices. Taking serious note of the delay, the Deputy Commissioner reiterated that the issue of encroachments on the national highways is under continuous monitoring by the Supreme Court, making prompt action essential.
The letter further stated that the Government of India, through a Gazette Notification dated October 29, 2025, had delegated specific powers related to the removal of encroachments to District Magistrates. In view of these powers, all SDMs have been instructed to conduct joint inspections and launch special anti-encroachment drives in coordination with officials of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Police Department.
The administration has directed officers to ensure the early and effective removal of unauthorised structures, occupations and obstructions along national highways. The communication stressed that all action must be carried out strictly in accordance with the provisions laid down in the Gazette Notification.
To strengthen the enforcement mechanism, copies of the order were also sent to the Superintendent of Police, Mandi, seeking necessary police assistance during the anti-encroachment drives. Simultaneously, the Project Director of NHAI at Nagchalla has been asked to provide manpower, machinery and logistical support in coordination with the district administration and other concerned departments.
Officials said the move aims to improve road safety, ensure smooth traffic movement and prevent illegal occupation of public land along the highways. The administration is expected to begin coordinated field operations shortly, with local authorities likely to identify vulnerable stretches where encroachments have increased in recent months.
The district administration has made it clear that stringent action will be taken against violations, and all departments concerned have been asked to ensure timely compliance with the directives.
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