DERA ISMAIL KHAN: The district administration reclaimed government land worth an estimated Rs 213.2 million during a major anti-encroachment operation in Dera Ismail Khan on October 23, removing illegal structures from roadsides and public spaces to improve traffic movement and pedestrian access.
The Dera Ismail Khan anti-encroachment drive recovered 4 kanals and 2 marlas of state-owned land from illegal occupation. The operation covered several locations between the Old Vegetable Market and Wensam College, where unauthorised platforms, roadside structures, temporary installations, tandoors and ramps were demolished.
According to the district administration, the operation was conducted on the directives of the Deputy Commissioner and supervised by Assistant Commissioner Dr Muhammad Hamid Siddiq.
The campaign aimed to protect government property, clear public passageways and address traffic congestion caused by encroachments along busy roads.
Encroachments removed from major roads
In the first phase, administrative teams cleared illegal platforms, raised structures and temporary installations established by street vendors at the Old Vegetable Market.
Unauthorised structures along the boundary wall adjacent to Jawan Markaz were also removed to recover occupied government land.
The operation subsequently expanded to both sides of the road connecting Paroa Adda with Wensam College.
During this phase, teams demolished illegally constructed platforms, roadside installations, vendor structures, tandoors and ramps occupying public land.
Officials said the removal of these structures was intended to restore road boundaries and create additional space for vehicles and pedestrians.
Reclaimed land valued at Rs 213.2 million
The district administration estimated the market value of the recovered 4 kanals and 2 marlas of government land at Rs 213.2 million.
Assistant Commissioner Dr Muhammad Hamid Siddiq personally monitored the operation and instructed the relevant staff to ensure that the reclaimed land remained free from further encroachments.
He said illegal structures along roads and public passageways disrupted traffic flow and created difficulties for pedestrians and motorists.
The assistant commissioner directed officials to maintain clear road boundaries and prevent the reoccupation of recovered government property.
Administration announces continued action
The district administration said its campaign against illegal occupation of state land would continue in different parts of Dera Ismail Khan.
Residents, traders and shopkeepers were urged to avoid constructing unauthorised structures on government property or occupying roadsides and public passageways.
Officials also sought public cooperation in keeping streets accessible and improving traffic management across the city.
According to the administration, the ongoing enforcement campaign is focused on protecting public assets, improving mobility and ensuring that roads and pedestrian routes remain available for their intended use.