In a sweeping move to reclaim public land, authorities in Gandhinagar, Gujarat’s capital, initiated a large-scale anti-encroachment drive early Thursday morning (September 18, 2025). The ambitious operation aims to clear approximately one lakh square meters of government land situated along the scenic Sabarmati riverbank.
Kicking off around 4 a.m. in the Pethapur area, this coordinated effort involves key government bodies: the Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation, the State Roads and Buildings Department, and the local district police, all working hand-in-hand.
Officials confirmed that nearly 700 illegal structures were earmarked for demolition. By Thursday afternoon, roughly 150 houses and shops had already been cleared, with demolition crews continuing their extensive work to remove the remaining unauthorized constructions.
To ensure a smooth and secure operation, the drive is being meticulously overseen by 20 dedicated teams of officials. A robust security presence of 700 police personnel, including high-ranking officers, has been deployed across the area.
The encroached land, which totals an impressive one lakh square meters, holds a significant market value, estimated to be around ₹1,000 crore.