Encroachments surge on Tawi floodplains, 256 occupants identified in Jammu

The Jammu and Kashmir government has identified 256 illegal occupants encroaching upon the floodplains of the Tawi River in the Nikki Tawi area of Jammu district, raising concerns over environmental degradation and unregulated construction.

Often referred to as the “oxygen chamber” of Jammu due to its dense green cover, Nikki Tawi spans over 5,000 kanals of prime land nestled between two channels of the river. However, the ecologically sensitive zone is increasingly under pressure from large-scale illegal constructions .

Replying to a query by BJP MLA Vikram Randhawa in the Assembly, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah informed that the government has submitted details of the encroachments before the National Green Tribunal (NGT), where the matter is currently under consideration.

According to the official response, the deputy commissioner of Jammu has identified 256 illegal occupants across various khasra numbers , covering an area of 328 kanals and 15 marlas . Notably, the Chief Minister stated that t hese occupants are not recorded in revenue records, and their ownership or legal claims remain unverified.

Communications from the divisional commissioner, Jammu, dated March 23, March 30, and April 1, 2026, have also been submitted in connection with the case, which is pending before the NGT in New Delhi and scheduled for hearing on April 24, 2026 .

Highlighting the risks posed by such encroachments, the government noted that recent flash floods washed away 17 houses constructed on the floodplains. While no loss of human life was reported, the incident underscored the vulnerability of illegal settlements in ecologically fragile zones.

The government has stated that further action will be taken in accordance with the NGT’s directions , as scrutiny continues over the environmental impact and legality of these encroachments.