Over 8,000 Illegal Structures Demolished Near Chandola Lake in Crackdown on Bangladeshi Encroachments

Ahmedabad (Uttam Hindu News): In Ahmedabad, which has become a hub for Bangladeshis, the process of removing illegal constructions along the Chandola Lake has begun. This is the second phase of the operation, during which 50 bulldozers and 50 teams from the municipal corporation, along with over 3,000 police personnel, will demolish around 8,000 illegal structures. This will free up about 2.5 lakh (250,000) square meters of land.

In the first phase, 4,000 illegal constructions were removed, clearing 1.5 lakh (150,000) square meters of land. After conducting a survey, the municipal corporation has distributed application forms to those who were residing in the area since before 2010 to provide them with alternative housing. Eligible individuals will be provided new homes upon eviction.

Police Commissioner G.S. Malik stated that among the structures being demolished, 207 were occupied by 250 illegal Bangladeshi nationals who were arrested last month and were involved in unlawful activities. A demolition attempt had also been made in this area back in 2009.

Local residents had petitioned the High Court during the first phase to halt the demolition of illegal structures, but the court ruled that all constructions were illegal and ordered the demolitions to continue. Now, the administration aims to remove the remaining structures and reclaim the land around Chandola Lake from encroachment.