Ahmedabad Slum Demolished in Massive Crackdown

Ahmedabad, Gujarat – In a decisive and forceful move against illegal encroachments linked to criminal activity, over 400 makeshift and semi-permanent homes in Akbarnagar, located behind the SP office near Ajit Mill Char Rasta in Bapunagar, were demolished early Thursday morning in a two-hour-long high-intensity operation.

The demolition site, often referred to as the “Chhapra area”, was known to harbor criminals including notorious figures like Fazal and Aftab, who had threatened police officers with firearms just five months ago. In a chilling video that went viral, goons were seen brandishing weapons and humiliating police, even forcing officers into their own vehicle at gunpoint. The incident had triggered massive public outrage, leading to the suspension of two policemen for failing to act.

This backdrop of lawlessness prompted the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) to take strong action. “This was not just about clearing land—it was about reclaiming control from criminals,” said a senior AMC official.

The demolition was executed by the AMC’s North Zone Estate Department, backed by a formidable security force: 2 ACPs, 9 Police Inspectors, 27 PSIs, 400 police personnel and 10 SRP teams. A fleet of 5 JCBs, 7 Hitachis, 2 breakers, and 14 other heavy machines, along with 100 laborers, flattened the illegal structures spread across 15,000 square meters.

“The operation was carried out peacefully and without incident,” confirmed ACP R.D. Ojha, H Division. “But we took no chances given the area’s volatile history.”

Deputy Municipal Commissioner Vishal Khanama said prior notices were served to the residents, and eviction warnings had been issued well in advance. Notably, 221 individuals from this area had been allotted alternative housing in Vatwa back in 2014. However, 76 families had refused to vacate and continued occupying the space illegally.

“This is a long-pending action. The land must be utilized for the welfare of law-abiding citizens—not criminals,” Khanama emphasized. He added that once debris is cleared, the AMC plans to construct a boundary wall to prevent re-encroachment and is considering a library, garden, and ward office on the reclaimed land.

For locals, the demolition is a double-edged sword—relief for some and displacement for others. “We were living in fear for months. Criminals ruled this area, and even the police seemed helpless,” said a nearby shopkeeper under condition of anonymity. “This operation has brought back some hope.”

With this large-scale demolition, Ahmedabad has sent a clear message—illegal settlements that become breeding grounds for crime will no longer be tolerated.