In a major crackdown on encroachments, authorities in Gujarat's Jamnagar demolished nearly 300 illegally built structures on Saturday, including a religious site that featured surprisingly luxurious amenities like a swimming pool, bathtub, and spacious rooms.
About 8 lakh square feet of land worth Rs 200 crore is being cleared using heavy machinery.
As per an NDTV report, the religious structure, located in Bachu Nagar Extension, was among four places of worship constructed without permission over the past two decades. Officials were reportedly surprised to find high-end features typically associated with private residences.
Mega Demolition Drive In Jamnagar
According to civic officials, the illegal colony comprised at least 294 houses that had been constructed roughly 20–25 years ago, without any formal approval. Many of these homes were built in environmentally sensitive zones, obstructing the natural flow of the Rangmati River. This obstruction has been blamed for recurrent waterlogging and flood-like conditions in parts of Jamnagar during the monsoon season.
Superintendent of Police Premsukh Delu confirmed the demolition of 300 encroachments. "Illegal encroachments near the Rangmati River have been cleared. These were contributing to flooding during the rains. Several criminals had also built houses and farmhouses here, all of which have now been removed," he said.
Officials added that the cleared land, spanning approximately eight lakh square feet, will be monitored to prevent future encroachment. The demolition drive marks one of the largest anti-encroachment actions taken in the region in recent years.