Crackdown on encroachments in Gurugram’s posh builder colonies

A sweeping crackdown by the Department of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) on encroachments in Gurugram’s upscale licensed colonies has triggered fresh demands from residents of HSVP sectors, who are now seeking similar enforcement in their areas plagued by widespread violations. The enforcement drive, now in its third consecutive day, saw bulldozer action across eight prominent builder colonies, including DLF Phases 1 and 2, Sushant Lok-2, South City-1, Palam Vihar, Uppal Southend, Malibu Town and RD City.

Led by DTPE (Enforcement) Amit Madholia, teams carried out coordinated action to clear illegal structures from roads, green belts and public spaces. While residents in these posh colonies witnessed large-scale removals of encroachments, the move has put the spotlight on HSVP sectors, where similar violations — especially misuse of stilt parking and common areas remain rampant. Notably, HSVP sectors account for over 45% of the city’s stilt-plus-four housing stock. The Federation of RWAs has written to the Chief Minister, demanding a comprehensive review and crackdown in HSVP sectors as well.

“We welcome the action in licensed colonies, but selective enforcement is not a solution. HSVP sectors are facing even worse conditions, with stilt areas being illegally converted into shops, PGs and extensions. This not only violates norms but also poses serious safety risks,” a Federation representative said.

In DLF Phase 1 and 2 alone, nearly 550 houses were covered, with authorities removing around 150 illegal lawns, dismantling over 40 ramps, and clearing more than 100 illegal gates, grills and barricades. In market areas, unauthorised kiosks, taxi stands and commercial extensions were demolished.

At South City-1, teams removed encroachments from 96 houses, including private gardens and fencing, besides dismantling 15 labour quarters and 27 guard rooms. In Palam Vihar, encroachments along an 18-metre-wide road were cleared across 140 houses.

Sushant Lok-2 saw removal of over 40 illegal structures, including ramps, DG sets and boundary walls encroaching upon green areas. Similar action was carried out in Uppal Southend, Malibu Town and RD City, where illegal parking sheds, tin structures, hoardings and guard rooms were demolished.

DTPE Madholia said the drive is part of a sustained effort to restore urban order.

“This is not a one-day action but a continuous process to make the city more organised and accessible. Residents were given prior opportunity to remove encroachments voluntarily. Strict action will continue against violators without exception,” he said.

Officials confirmed that the anti-encroachment drive will continue in a phased manner across all licensed colonies.