What Measures Are Being Taken Against Encroachments in Ahmedabad?
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Synopsis
In a decisive move, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation and city police executed a large-scale demolition to clear illegal encroachments in Rakhiyal, reaffirming their commitment to restoring public land for community use. This operation not only highlights the ongoing battle against unauthorized structures but also aims to enhance community space for thousands of residents.
Key Takeaways
- Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation and police collaborated for a large-scale demolition.
- Approximately 20 illegal structures were removed in Rakhiyal.
- Over 350 police personnel were deployed to ensure order.
- The cleared land is set to benefit over 5,000 residents.
- Preventive measures will be implemented to avoid future encroachments.
Ahmedabad, May 15 (NationPress) - A significant demolition initiative was undertaken by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) along with the city police in Rakhiyal on Thursday, effectively clearing encroachments from a Gujarat Housing Board plot located near Morarji Chowk.
The operation successfully dismantled approximately 20 unauthorized business units and a temporary structure used for Namaz. Assistant Commissioner of Police R.D. Oza stated that this demolition was prompted by the request of the Housing Board and executed with comprehensive police assistance to maintain order throughout the procedure.
The contested plot was initially allocated for a housing scheme in 1960, specifically reserved for mill workers. Although a previous demolition occurred in 2008, encroachments gradually re-emerged, necessitating fresh action from the authorities.
To guarantee a smooth operation, more than 350 police personnel were deployed, including senior officials like Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) and Police Inspectors. This considerable police presence highlighted the administration's commitment to preventing any disturbances during this sensitive undertaking.
Officials reported a proliferation of illegal commercial ventures, including shops and small factories, occupying the open land over the years. The existence of active electricity connections in many of these establishments raised concerns about how such services were provided to unauthorized structures.
Similar irregularities were recently noted during the Chandola Lake clearance effort. Bapunagar Ward Corporator Prakash Gurjar indicated that the operation spanned three illegally occupied plots totaling 2,680 square meters.
Given that the Housing Board does not possess a dedicated estate wing, the AMC's North Zone Estate Department took charge of the clearance. Gurjar also confirmed that the recovered area would be enclosed to deter future encroachments. The reclaimed land is anticipated to be restored for community utilization, potentially benefiting over 5,000 residents from nearby Housing Board residences.
In a related development, the Gujarat government initiated a comprehensive demolition drive in the Chandola Lake area of Ahmedabad in late April 2025. This operation, led by the AMC with considerable police backing, targeted illegal encroachments that had developed around the historic water body over the years.
The drive resulted in the destruction of roughly 4,000 unauthorized structures, encompassing both permanent and temporary dwellings, across 1.5 lakh square meters of government land.
Authorities reported that numerous settlements were occupied by individuals suspected of being illegal Bangladeshi immigrants. In the days preceding the demolition, over 6,500 individuals were detained for verification, with 450 confirmed as illegal residents.
Point of View
The execution of these operations must balance enforcement with sensitivity toward affected residents. This approach reflects a commitment to maintaining order while prioritizing community needs.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the demolition drive in Ahmedabad?
The demolition drive was initiated at the request of the Gujarat Housing Board due to the resurgence of illegal encroachments on land initially reserved for mill workers.
How many structures were demolished during the operation?
Approximately 20 unauthorized business units and a makeshift structure used for Namaz were removed during the operation.
What measures are being taken to prevent future encroachments?
The reclaimed area will be fenced off to deter future encroachments, ensuring the land returns to community use.
Who was involved in the demolition operation?
The operation involved the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation and a significant deployment of police personnel, including senior officers, to ensure order.
What other similar actions have taken place recently?
A recent demolition operation at Chandola Lake also targeted illegal encroachments, removing approximately 4,000 unauthorized structures from the area.
