Dawn broke over Vatva with the roar of heavy machinery as AMC’s anti-encroachment squad targeted Bandervat Lake. Tuesday’s operation, fortified by 500 police and multiple teams, razed nearly 450 residential and commercial setups in a bid to reclaim vital water infrastructure.
The lake’s natural flow had been crippled by unauthorized builds, causing persistent flooding and filth in nearby areas. AMC plans to free 58,000 square meters, including 28,000 for the water body itself and TP Road expansions.
Speaking on the drive, DYMC B.C. Parmar detailed the inter-lake connectivity initiative with Mahalakshmi and Ropad to curb monsoon woes. ‘We’re processing 430 homes and about 30 shops based on surveys,’ he noted.
Compassionate policies offer new homes to those settled before 2010 with proofs. Shelter facilities for hundreds include essentials, with transport assured.
Assistant Commissioner Yatendra Naik was firm: ‘No illegal structures on water bodies—it’s non-negotiable for community welfare.’ Powered by 10 Hitachis and JCBs, the effort aims for swift completion, marking a milestone in Ahmedabad’s fight for sustainable urban spaces.