Rajkot, Feb 24 (NationPress) The Rajkot Municipal Corporation (RMC) has successfully dismantled 1,504 illegal structures in the Jangleshwar locality next to the Aji River and the adjacent town-planning (TP) road, as confirmed by officials on Tuesday evening.

The officials indicated that the final five structures will be eliminated on Wednesday.

This operation, which commenced on Monday, forms part of a comprehensive anti-encroachment initiative aimed at removing unauthorized buildings that authorities claim are hindering the river’s natural flow and obstructing infrastructure development.

The demolition target was expanded from an initial count of 1,489 to 1,509 structures.

Deputy Municipal Commissioner Mahesh Jani stated that notices were issued to proprietors of about 1,500 properties, including both residential and commercial buildings situated along the riverbank and TP road.

He emphasized that all identified encroachments would be cleared, and subsequent to the demolitions, efforts will be made to remove debris and prepare the site for future development.

“All debris will be cleared by tomorrow evening. Once debris is removed, we will decide on the road's inauguration. Currently, some roads have been opened to facilitate the smooth flow of vehicles,” Jani stated.

The operation has been executed under stringent security measures. Officials utilized heavy machinery and excavation tools to dismantle various buildings, ranging from modest homes to larger multi-storey complexes.

Over 2,500 police personnel, including local units, surveillance teams, drone squads, and state reserve forces, were deployed to maintain order and assist the civic staff.

Residents received advance notifications, and utilities such as water and electricity were disconnected prior to the commencement of demolitions, according to the police.

DCP Crime Jagdish Bagarwa commented, “In the Jangleshwar area, significant action has been taken against illegal constructions associated with 11 individuals with criminal backgrounds in a joint effort between the police and the municipal corporation. This operation resulted in the demolition of eight houses, 97 huts, three shops, and one structure approximately 3,000 square feet in size, all of which were illegally constructed along the riverbank.”

The police reported that the accused were residing in luxurious homes and leasing huts along the riverbank, profiting from the income generated through illegal activities.

The demolitions followed legal actions in the Gujarat High Court, where petitions from certain residents seeking interim protection from removal were denied.

Officials mentioned that the reclaimed land, estimated at over 87,000 square meters, will be cleared of debris and set up for planned development, which includes enhancements to river flow management and the construction of a wider road.

The administration is optimistic that this demolition will mitigate the accused's criminal activities and deter illegal operations in the area.