Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Amid protest by traders, the demolition squad of Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) razed more than 60 shops in Irani Dera on Monday.
The shops near Platform Number 6, Bhopal railway station were demolished as part of preparations for the second phase of Metro project. The operation was conducted in presence of municipal employees and a heavy police force to ensure law and order. Shop owners of nearby Irani Dera area were also served notices by the BMC, instructing them to vacate their homes.
Affected shopkeepers, many of whom have been running businesses in the area for nearly five decades, expressed their distress over the action, stating that it would severely impact their livelihoods and their employees.
ACP Rakesh Singh Baghel, who oversaw the operation said, ‘Around 70-80 police personnel, including four station in-charges, were deployed to maintain law and order during the drive.’
Bhopal Municipal Corporation’s encroachment officer, Shailendra Singh Bhadoriya, explained the necessity of the operation. ‘For the second phase of Metro project, the district administration and Bhopal Metro authorities requested us to clear encroachments in Irani Dera area near the railway station. More than 60 shops were demolished and BMC workers assisted local residents in safely relocating their belongings.’ Despite precautions taken, the demolition drive has left many shopkeepers and employees grappling with uncertainty.
However, the BMC remains firm in its commitment to make Bhopal encroachment-free and facilitate smooth progress of the Metro project.
