Ahmedabad: In a major anti-encroachment drive, the Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) on Monday removed over 900 residential structures illegally built on Isanpur Lake, the city’s third-largest waterbody. The operation began at 7:00 am and continued throughout the day, with over 500 AMC staff and 500 police personnel overseeing the task.

Deputy Commissioner Riddhesh P. Rawal said the drive aims to protect the lake, which had earlier seen the demolition of 167 commercial structures. Notices were issued to all residential units before the monsoon, but the drive was delayed due to Diwali celebrations. The operation, initially scheduled for November 20, was postponed after local residents requested additional time.

The demolition team deployed 12 Hitachi excavators, 8 JCBs, 12 dumpers, and 12 compactors. By 6:00 pm, around 900 structures had been cleared. Officials noted that 10 residents had approached the High Court, which allowed the AMC to proceed with the demolition while directing time for compliance for the petitioners.

The AMC stated that as per the Supreme Court’s order, no construction is allowed on waterbodies. Residents were invited to submit applications for housing under the PMAY 2.0 scheme, and verified applicants will be provided alternative housing on humanitarian grounds.

With today’s operation, approximately 90,000 sq. meters of the lake area has been cleared. The lake’s redevelopment has been included in this year’s budget. In the coming days, debris will be removed, and development work will begin, including filling the lake with rainwater via the stormwater system, which is expected to reduce waterlogging in surrounding areas. DeshGujarat