Rajkot Municipal Corporation Launches Major Anti-Encroachment Operation
In a decisive move to ensure planned urban development and prevent future flooding disasters, the Rajkot Municipal Corporation (RMC) on Saturday launched a massive, phased operation to remove illegal encroachments along the banks of the Aji river and the TP Road in the Jangleshwar area. The demolition of remaining structures is scheduled to begin on Monday.
Scale and Scope of the Operation
The meticulously planned operation targets the removal of a staggering 1,489 illegal structures spread across 87,000 square metres of land. The largest concentration of encroachments is along the Aji riverbank, where 992 structures occupying 55,000 square metres are slated for demolition. An additional 497 structures covering 32,000 square metres along the town planning road will also be cleared.
To execute this ambitious drive, the RMC has mobilized substantial machinery and manpower. More than 1,130 officers and employees have been deployed across seven carefully demarcated zones. The operation is supported by heavy equipment including 70 backhoe loaders and 84 tractors. A dedicated control room has been established for continuous, centralized monitoring and rapid decision-making throughout the process.
Official Statement and Development Goals
"This is a crucial step for the comprehensive development of Rajkot," an RMC official emphasized. "Removing these obstacles will restore the natural flow of the Aji river, significantly mitigate waterlogging during the monsoon season, and pave the way for essential development projects that will benefit the entire city."
The civic body has issued notices to all affected residents, urging them to voluntarily remove illegal constructions before enforcement actions begin. While the operational groundwork commenced on Saturday, actual demolition will start on Monday for structures that remain. The RMC has warned that demolition costs will be recovered from property owners, who will also be held liable for any material damage incurred during the process.
Cooperation and Assistance Offered
In a gesture of cooperation, the RMC has appealed to citizens to voluntarily dismantle encroachments and has offered technical guidance, small machinery, and assistance with debris removal to those who comply willingly. This approach aims to minimize disruption while achieving the operation's objectives.
Multi-Departmental Coordination and Security Measures
The operation involves extensive coordination between multiple departments including estate, town planning, police, and utility services. Adequate police security has been deployed to maintain law and order, with senior municipal officers overseeing all activities.
Police authorities have prepared thoroughly for the exercise. The police commissioner issued several notifications on Saturday, including invoking Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita Section 163, which prohibits the assembly of more than four people to maintain public order. Additional prohibitions include the use of drones and the carrying or display of weapons in public places during the operation.
This comprehensive anti-encroachment drive represents one of Rajkot's most significant urban development initiatives in recent years, addressing both immediate flood prevention concerns and long-term city planning objectives.
