Ahmedabad, June 1: A significant demolition campaign was launched in Viramgam, Gujarat, to clear encroachments for the four-lane expansion of National Highway-17. Authorities reclaimed approximately 4,000 square meters of occupied land. During this operation, several structures, including three shrines, were demolished.
Tapan Singh Dodiya, Deputy Superintendent of Police for the Viramgam Division, stated, “To maintain law and order during this operation, we deployed one Deputy Superintendent, 15 police inspectors, and over 550 police personnel. Prior to the demolition, meetings were held with representatives from all communities. The administration received full cooperation from all parties, allowing the process to commence peacefully.”
Sub-Divisional Magistrate Virendra Desai mentioned, “There was a narrow area at the entrance of Viramgam city, where three shrines and several other minor encroachments existed. This land was privately owned and had been acquired through the land acquisition process. Fair compensation has been provided to the landowners. Today, we completed the process of reclaiming the land.”
According to the administration, this area is crucial for the highway expansion. The narrow path was obstructing traffic flow. The new four-lane highway will facilitate safer and easier travel from Viramgam to Ahmedabad and other cities. The operation commenced in the morning and was completed under strict security measures. Bulldozers removed the encroachments in the presence of a heavy police force. Initially, local residents felt some discomfort, but with the cooperation of community representatives, the situation remained calm. No unpleasant incidents were reported.
The Gujarat government is accelerating the expansion of national highways across the state. The Viramgam project is part of this initiative. Officials indicate that construction work will begin soon after the removal of encroachments. Local traders and shopkeepers have also been affected by this campaign. Some shopkeepers mentioned that they had received prior notice and discussions regarding compensation were ongoing. The administration claims that all affected individuals will receive compensation and alternative arrangements as per regulations.
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