Mhow (Madhya Pradesh): A significant anti-encroachment drive, spearheaded by a coordinated effort between Mhow Cantonment Board (MCB), local administration and the police, took place in Mhow, approximately 25 kilometres from Indore district headquarters, on Thursday.
Around 14 Patwari, 25 kotwar and cantonment staff were present. The operation, lasting three hours, resulted in the demolition of about a dozen illegal constructions and removal of encroachments from approximately 100 shops and houses.
The decisive action comes in the wake of severe communal riots that erupted in Mhow on the night of March 9. The unrest was triggered when a rally of youths, celebrating India’s victory in the ICC Champions Trophy, was attacked by a mob.
The subsequent violence saw three cars, over a dozen motorcycles and numerous shops torched across five locations in town. In response to widespread destruction, Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav and other authorities pledged a comprehensive anti-encroachment drive.
The operation was notable for the unprecedented level of cooperation between the MCB, local administration and police forces, a collaboration deemed crucial to the drive’s success.
Mhow SDM Rakesh Parmar, Tehsildar Vivek Soni, Mhow Cantonment City Engineer HS Kolya, Engineer Amit Vyas, ASP Rupesh Dwivedi, Mhow Police Thana In-charge Rahul Sharma, a substantial police contingent and Quick Response Force (QRF) personnel were present to ensure the operation proceeded smoothly and to prevent any untoward incident.
SDM Rakesh Parmar, speaking to media persons, detailed the operation’s focus. ‘The initial phase of the drive targeted constructions obstructing catchment areas of wells, step wells and drains,’ he stated. ‘Subsequently, encroachments were removed from key areas including Maulana Azad Road, Patti Bazar, Market Chowk and Phool Chowk.’
A particularly significant aspect of the drive involved demolition of two temporary houses built over an old well in Patti Bazar Square. These structures had effectively sealed the well with debris.
