Nagpur Civic Authorities Face Resistance During Multi-Zone Anti-Encroachment Operation
Tension flared in Nagpur on Monday as enforcement teams from the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) conducted extensive anti-encroachment drives across multiple zones, facing resistance from encroachers who attempted to obstruct the civic action. The operation, which spanned from morning until late evening, targeted unauthorized structures that have been impeding public roads and footpaths, particularly in areas witnessing increased anti-social activities.
Mangalwari Zone Becomes Flashpoint of Resistance
The enforcement action began in Mangalwari Zone, where officials intensified efforts following reports of rising crime incidents, especially around Awasthi Nagar Square. Enforcement squad number 4 operated along a critical stretch from Jafar Nagar Square to Awasthi Nagar Square, covering the New Chopde Lawn area and Ahbab Square. The drive, which commenced in the morning and continued until approximately 2:30 PM, required substantial police protection as encroachers attempted to resist the removal of their illegal establishments.
During this phase, civic teams demolished four to five illegal stalls, shutter extensions, and portions of shop constructions that had encroached upon public spaces. A particularly significant action involved the complete razing of an unauthorized structure near New Chopde Lawn using a JCB machine. Assistant Commissioner Ashok Garate and Deputy Engineer Prashant Nehare supervised this operation, ensuring it proceeded despite the initial tension.
Evening Reveals Disturbing Pattern of Quick Return
Despite the sustained enforcement action throughout the day, a concerning pattern emerged by evening. Encroachers gradually returned to reoccupy footpaths in Awasthi Nagar and Jafar Nagar, raising serious questions about the long-term effectiveness of such drives. This quick return highlighted the persistent challenge civic authorities face in maintaining cleared public spaces and preventing re-encroachment.
Later in the evening, enforcement teams continued their efforts from IT Park to VNIT and along South Ambazari Road, systematically clearing illegal stalls and shops from both sides of the roadway. This extended operation demonstrated the NMC's commitment to addressing encroachment issues across different parts of the city.
Coordinated Action Across Multiple Zones
Simultaneously, in Dharampeth Zone, enforcement squads conducted a day-long drive that covered Akashvani Chowk, the District Collectorate area, Civil Lines, and areas near the VCA ground. The action continued along Sitabuldi main road up to Variety Square, targeting unauthorized structures that have been causing pedestrian and traffic congestion.
In Gandhibagh zone, another enforcement team focused on the Mahal area, covering Mahal Chowk and Badkas Chowk. Here too, illegal stalls and shops encroaching on roads and footpaths were removed as part of the coordinated civic action.
Leadership and Execution of the Operation
The multi-zone anti-encroachment drive was conducted under the strategic guidance of Assistant Commissioner (Encroachment) Harish Raut and Enforcement Superintendent Sanjay Kamble. The on-ground execution was managed by Junior Engineer Bhaskar Malve and various encroachment squads who worked throughout the day to implement the civic action.
This comprehensive operation underscores the ongoing struggle between municipal authorities seeking to reclaim public spaces and encroachers who persistently occupy them. While the immediate removal of illegal structures provides temporary relief, the quick return of encroachers by evening suggests that more sustainable solutions may be needed to address this persistent urban governance challenge in Nagpur.
