The Western Railway is actively conducting a large-scale encroachment drive in Bandra’s Garib Nagar slum area to clear government land from illegal occupation. Despite facing resistance from violent protesters who threw stones to disrupt the process, the railway’s operation to reclaim the land for future development is progressing smoothly. Debris clearance is ongoing near Bandra station as part of the demolition drive.
In response to the violent protests during the anti-encroachment drive in Garib Nagar, the Mumbai Police have arrested a total of 19 individuals, with more arrests expected soon. Among the arrested, one is a minor who has been sent to a children’s remand home. Additionally, three more accused individuals are scheduled to appear in court for their involvement in violence and vandalism during the police operation.
The demolition drive in Garib Nagar, Bandra East, aims to free over 5,000 meters of government land from illegal occupation near the Western Railway network. Despite initial opposition and clashes, more than 60% of the Railway land has been reclaimed by demolishing illegally constructed structures in the area. The police have been utilizing CCTV footage to identify and apprehend those responsible for the violent incidents.
