The Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) conducted a large-scale anti-encroachment drive at the congested Sarda circle on Saturday, demolishing illegal roadside eateries, stalls, and shop extensions that had been obstructing traffic flow for years.
Massive Deployment and Operation
The operation began early Saturday morning with nearly 150 NMC employees, six bulldozers, and multiple cranes deployed. Teams razed unauthorised sheds, hotel extensions, concrete platforms, and verandas along key stretches, including the road from Sarda circle to Wakdi Barav. The drive continued throughout the day under tight police bandobast to prevent any law and order issues.
Background and Enforcement
The civic body had previously issued notices to shop and restaurant owners, directing them to voluntarily remove illegal structures. However, persistent encroachments continued to disrupt traffic, prompting officials to proceed with demolition under the guidance of municipal commissioner Manisha Khatri and the anti-encroachment department.
Impact on Traffic and Commuters
Sarda circle, a densely populated commercial hub connected to the Mumbai-Agra highway, has long suffered from congestion due to roadside parking and illegal extensions narrowing carriage space. Residents and daily passengers welcomed the action, noting that encroachments had severely hampered movement. NMC officials stated the crackdown is part of a broader effort to widen roads ahead of the upcoming Kumbh Mela, as such obstructions directly impede traffic flow and ongoing infrastructure work.
