JKRERA intensifies crackdown on illegal developers in J&K

Jammu: The Jammu &  Kashmir Real Estate Regulatory Authority (JKRERA) has launched a  crackdown on unauthorized plotted colonies in Kathua and Udhampur districts, in a new push to regulate the real estate sector and protect homebuyers from fraudulent practices in J&K.

The authority conducted comprehensive inspections of several colonies in these districts, identifying developers operating without proper registration or approvals.

As part of the enforcement action, JKRERA directed the Tehsildar of Kathua to provide detailed revenue records for the inspected colonies to verify land ownership and development permissions. Notices have been issued to developers found in violation, mandating them to register with JKRERA and comply with the regulatory framework established under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016.

“Unauthorized plotted colonies pose a significant risk to buyers, often lacking legal approvals and basic infrastructure,” a JKRERA official stated. “This crackdown aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the real estate sector, safeguarding the interests of homebuyers.”

The inspections in Udhampur and Reasi districts, conducted earlier this month, also revealed similar irregularities, prompting JKRERA to seek detailed factual reports and revenue records from the respective Tehsildars. Sources indicate that the authority is scrutinizing land use patterns and development activities to curb illegal plotting and ensure compliance with zoning and environmental regulations.

Local residents and homebuyers have welcomed the move, expressing hope that stricter enforcement will curb the proliferation of unapproved colonies that often lack essential amenities like water, electricity, and proper road connectivity. “We’ve seen many cases where people invest their life savings, only to find out the land or project is illegal,” said Anil Sharma, a resident of Kathua. “This action by JKRERA is long overdue.”

The authority has warned that non-compliance with the issued notices could lead to stringent penalties, including fines and legal action against erring developers. JKRERA has also urged the public to verify the registration status of real estate projects on its official portal before making investments.

This crackdown follows a broader trend of increased vigilance by JKRERA to streamline the real estate market in Jammu & Kashmir, ensuring that only legally compliant projects proceed.