Seven out of 37 families residing in Shivnagar near Asaram Ashram in Ahmedabad have agreed to a government rehabilitation offer and left their residences as part of the initiative to dismantle unauthorized constructions, as per the Gujarat High Court’s instructions. Officials have introduced a rehabilitation scheme for all impacted families, providing new homes in Chandkheda along with temporary lodging or monthly rent support until permanent housing is arranged. The families were granted plots of 50 square yards by the government years ago, with specific guidelines on construction limits.
Authorities revealed that the families were allowed to build only on 37.50 square yards of the allocated land, leaving 12.50 square yards vacant, as per the terms of the allotment certificates. Some residents, however, expanded their constructions beyond the designated area, encroaching on government property. Notices were issued by the Estate Department of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation’s West Zone in line with legal provisions. Following the High Court’s intervention, authorities were instructed to dismantle structures exceeding the approved 50-square-yard threshold.
Residents were repeatedly informed about the court’s directives and asked to eliminate the unauthorized parts of their buildings. As the constructions persisted, enforcement measures were initiated to comply with the court’s orders. Simultaneously, the government introduced a rehabilitation-centric strategy for the affected families, emphasizing a compassionate approach in executing the action and facilitating the families’ resettlement. The rehabilitation plan includes the allocation of new houses in Chandkheda to Shivnagar residents and their adult family members in exchange for the land needed for public purposes.
Moreover, the government has arranged for either monthly rent support of Rs 10,000 or temporary accommodation in Keshavnagar at Chandkheda until the new houses are completed. Remaining residents are encouraged to avail themselves of the rehabilitation package, encompassing permanent housing, temporary lodging, and financial aid during the transition period. Officials affirmed that further steps concerning the unauthorized constructions will be taken in compliance with the High Court’s directives.
