The South Andaman District Administration continued its systematic efforts to safeguard government land with an eviction drive at Kalapathar Beach in Swaraj Dweep, clearing unauthorized structures and reclaiming a significant stretch of public space from illegal occupation. The operation, part of the administration’s regular inspections to prevent encroachments, resulted in the recovery of 700 square metres of government revenue land.
Revenue officials, who conducted the field action, identified three unauthorized constructions erected on government land along the beach area. The structures were dismantled during the operation, and the restored land was brought back under government khata for appropriate use. Officials described the eviction as necessary to maintain the integrity of ecologically sensitive and high-footfall public spaces such as Kalapathar Beach, which has in recent years seen increased pressure from both tourism activity and private encroachments.
The administration emphasized that the drive is part of a continuing strategy to counter illegal occupation through sustained vigilance, periodic field inspections and rapid response to complaints received from the public. Authorities reiterated that unauthorized structures, commercial or otherwise, distort land records, disrupt planned development and may lead to long-term environmental degradation if left unchecked. They stressed that all encroachments falling within government land, regardless of size, will be dealt with strictly.
Officials also issued a public advisory urging individuals and groups to refrain from occupying or modifying government land without authorization. They warned that legal action will be taken against violators under relevant provisions governing land use and municipal compliance. The administration noted that cooperation from local residents remains critical in preventing encroachments, particularly in regions with rising development interest and tourist inflow.
To strengthen public participation in safeguarding government land, the District Administration has expanded reporting avenues for citizens. Residents can report illegal construction or land occupation through the District Control Room via helpline numbers 03192-240127, 238881 or 1070. Additionally, a dedicated WhatsApp line, 9531888844, has been set up to receive details, including photographs. The administration assured that the identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential and that all genuine information will be acted upon promptly.
Officials noted that the issue of unauthorized construction is not limited to one pocket but is a wider challenge faced across several areas of the islands. The escalating value of commercial spaces, rapid tourism growth and limited land availability often encourage attempts at illegal land use. Authorities said regular enforcement, backed by community reporting, remains one of the most effective deterrents to address such violations.
For residents and tourists visiting Kalapathar Beach, the restored area marks a step toward preserving the natural character of the coastline. Administrators expressed hope that the continued clearing of illegal structures will help maintain public access and prevent unregulated activities from affecting the beach’s ecological balance. They also encouraged visitors to be mindful of local regulations and support community-driven efforts to protect public spaces.
The eviction drive forms part of a broader blueprint to protect public land across South Andaman. With the administration signalling zero tolerance toward encroachment, further inspections are expected in the coming weeks in other parts of the district. Officials stated that transparency, public cooperation and consistent enforcement will remain central to ensuring that government land is preserved for its intended public purpose.
