A significant demolition drive was launched in the Shalimar Bagh area of northwest Delhi on Sunday, targeting approximately 150 structures to remove encroachments and facilitate a crucial road-widening project. The operation commenced in the early hours of the morning under a heavy security blanket, with Delhi Police and paramilitary forces deployed to ensure law and order.
Extensive Security Measures and Legal Process
Senior police officials, including the Deputy Commissioner of Police and Assistant Commissioner of Police, were present at the site to oversee the security arrangements and the smooth execution of the drive. To ensure comprehensive oversight, drone surveillance, videography, and social media monitoring were in place, with all designated sectors under close watch. Officials reported that the situation remained peaceful and under control, with no significant resistance reported from residents.
The demolition drive is being conducted in compliance with court orders, specifically following directions from the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court. The land in question, acquired in 1980, was intended for a 30-meter-wide corridor as per the city’s master plan. Despite multiple attempts over the years to clear the site, the process had remained incomplete.
Notices were issued to the residents occupying the land, and following legal challenges, a detailed hearing process was undertaken. A total of 157 individuals submitted applications, and after examination, 157 separate orders were passed. Officials stated that none of the occupants had their names recorded as owners, and all were found to be unauthorised occupants. The Delhi High Court had previously ruled in favor of the administration, granting residents approximately seven weeks to vacate the premises voluntarily by May 30. Following the high court’s verdict, a plea to the Supreme Court was dismissed, clearing the path for the current demolition drive.
Road Widening Aims to Improve Traffic Flow
The demolition drive is part of a planned road expansion project aimed at improving traffic movement in the area. The structures identified for removal were obstructing the proposed widening of the road connecting the Outer Ring Road with Azadpur Mandi, forming a direct link from Sanjay Gandhi Transport Nagar. While the administration emphasized that the operation is being carried out in the public interest to enhance traffic management, some families who had resided in the area for years expressed emotional distress, noting the absence of a rehabilitation plan.
The administration has stated that it is adopting the principle of minimum displacement. Although the approved right-of-way is 30 meters, the current phase of action is focused on the necessary 10.5-meter area to save the maximum number of structures. Public notices were issued earlier this year, inviting objections, and all objections were considered before the final orders were passed. The Delhi High Court had dismissed a petition challenging the acquisition, stating that the land acquisition was valid and a project of public importance should not be stalled.
The Chenab Times News Desk