Varanasi, Feb 9 (NationPress) Unrest erupted in Uttar Pradesh's Varanasi on Monday as demolition activities commenced in the Dal Mandi region due to a road widening initiative. The atmosphere escalated in tension when a shopkeeper reportedly set his own shop ablaze in protest against the demolition.

Officials reported that unrest began shortly after demolition teams arrived in the area. During the operation, a shopkeeper allegedly threatened to take his own life in opposition to the drive.

In a shocking turn of events, he poured petrol inside his store and ignited it, causing panic among the locals and prompting a stampede among residents and onlookers.

After setting the fire, the individual managed to flee the scene, according to officials.

Upon learning of the fire, fire brigade teams, police, and administrative officials rushed to the site to extinguish the flames.

The Additional District Magistrate (City) arrived and took charge of the situation. However, despite relentless firefighting efforts, the fire continued to rage for a significant duration, with flames still visible from the structure.

Reports indicated that the building affected by the fire also contained residential units above the shop, where women were present at the time.

As a precaution, police cordoned off the area and urged residents to stay calm. Workers involved in the demolition were also evacuated to prevent any injuries.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Gaurav Banswal stated to IANS, "The process is being conducted appropriately here. During this, a disruptive individual poured petrol in front of his shop and ignited it. He has since fled the scene, and efforts are being made to apprehend him; he will be caught soon."

"Several individuals instigating unrest have been addressed. Four to five individuals have been taken into custody, and further actions will be taken against others causing disturbances," he added.

Authorities explained that the demolition is part of an ongoing initiative to eliminate unsafe and dilapidated structures in Dal Mandi.

They are targeting 21 unsafe buildings, including both homes and shops, utilizing bulldozers and manual tools like hammers.

Officials characterized this operation as the largest single-day demolition effort ever undertaken in the Dal Mandi area.

The demolition drive sparked protests from numerous local residents and shopkeepers, who requested a 10-day extension before the execution of the action.

Many were seen crying and pleading with officials to pause the demolition temporarily. During the protests, police detained eight individuals accused of causing disturbances at the site.

To ensure law and order, approximately 500 police officers have been deployed across four police station jurisdictions in the area, including female officers.

Authorities have also utilized drones for monitoring and surveillance over the locality.

As per officials, a total of 187 homes have been earmarked for demolition in the Dal Mandi area as part of the initiative. To date, 29 structures have been dismantled, while actions are ongoing against 21 buildings deemed unsafe and dilapidated just two days prior.

Officials further noted that previous demolition activities were conducted in the area. On January 21, eight homes were demolished simultaneously, while on January 31, the Municipal Corporation issued warnings to 23 homeowners regarding the proposed actions.

The administration has asserted that most of the targeted buildings are over 100 years old and have become structurally unsound.

Authorities emphasized that residents continuing to inhabit such buildings are putting their lives at grave risk, making the demolition drive essential for public safety.