Jamnagar, May 21 (NationPress) In a significant move towards the anticipated Riverfront Development Project, the Jamnagar Municipal Corporation (JMC) in Gujarat initiated a large-scale demolition operation to eliminate unlawful encroachments along the Rangamati riverbed, spanning from Kalavad Naka to Nageshwar.

The initiative resulted in the dismantling of 116 unauthorized structures, including houses and shops, across three different sites, reclaiming around 50,000 square feet of public land.

The operation commenced early Wednesday morning, engaging over 200 civic staff, and was bolstered by a substantial police presence, which included a team of women officers from the City A Division. This action was taken after previous notifications were sent to occupants of the encroached properties, many of whom were either living or conducting businesses on land that is officially owned by the Municipal Corporation.

The targeted area runs alongside the Rangamati River, which has faced increasing pressure from illegal constructions. In the triangular section of the riverbank, 57 houses were demolished.

Furthermore, 47 additional houses and 16 commercial shops were taken down at two other nearby locations. The operation saw the deployment of 12 JCB machines, three Hitachi excavators, and tractors. The demolition was conducted under the guidance of Municipal Commissioner D.N. Modi, with coordination from DMC Devendrasinh Jhala, Assistant Commissioner Bhavesh Jani, Controlling Officer Mukesh Varnava, and key teams from the Estate Branch, TPO Branch, and Fire Department.

The civic body organized three distinct teams to oversee the demolition at various sites simultaneously. Police Inspector N.A. Chavda was in charge of maintaining law and order during the process.

Officials affirmed that residents had received sufficient notice and time to vacate their premises. The clearance of the riverfront in Jamnagar follows similar recent actions in Ahmedabad, where extensive encroachments were dismantled as part of urban development efforts.

The reclaimed land in Jamnagar is anticipated to be incorporated into forthcoming riverfront beautification and public utility projects. Municipal officials indicated that the drive will proceed in phases, concentrating on reclaiming government land and tackling urban planning challenges caused by unregulated settlements.