The Rajkot Municipal Corporation (RMC) in Gujarat initiated the largest demolition operation in the city’s history, targeting 1,489 illegal structures in the Jangleshwar locality and along the Aji riverbed. The operation, which began early in the morning, involves over 1,130 municipal officers and staff wearing protective gear. The civic body has divided the area into seven zones, each overseen by a Class-1 officer, with City Engineers leading the demolition teams.
Municipal Commissioner Tushar Sumera is overseeing the operation from a dedicated control room, ensuring real-time coordination and public safety. More than 260 vehicles and machines, including JCBs, tractors, and excavators, are being used in the demolition process. The corporation estimates clearing 87,000 square meters of land, with strict vigilance maintained by the authorities.
Rajkot Police Commissioner Brajesh Kumar Jha reported that 455 structures had been demolished by 10 a.m. out of the identified 1,500 structures. Section 163 has been imposed to maintain public order, with around 3,000 personnel deployed for security. Drone surveillance is in place, and restrictions on public assembly are enforced until February 26.
The demolition drive aims to address long-standing illegal constructions near the riverbed, town planning violations, and the presence of criminals in the area. Records show numerous criminal cases in the locality over the past decade, including liquor-related offenses, gambling cases, and violent crimes. Over 1,000 households have voluntarily vacated the area ahead of the operation, which is expected to last around three days.
