Chandola Lake Phase-2 Demolition Begins in Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, Gujarat – In a sweeping effort to reclaim and revitalize Chandola Lake, often referred to as ‘Mini Bangladesh’, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) commenced Phase-2 demolition operations at 6:30 am on Tuesday. Following the successful clearance of illegal encroachments around Bada Lake in Phase-1, attention has now turned to the Chhota Lake area, located from the Suryanagar police post towards Shah Alam.

By mid-morning, significant progress had been made, with 45 percent of the demolition work completed. “Our target is to finish the entire operation within two days,” stated Deputy Municipal Commissioner Bharat Parmar, emphasizing the scale and urgency of the project. Over 8,000 mud-brick houses are slated for removal, marking a critical phase in the comprehensive redevelopment plan for Chandola Lake.

Residents were informed through loudspeakers over the past three days to vacate their homes by May 20, with provisions made under the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) Housing Scheme for eligible occupants predating 2010. Forms for housing consideration can be obtained from the ward office at Danilimda, ensuring that displaced residents have access to alternative accommodations as part of the municipal strategy.

“The development of Chandola Lake will proceed in seven phases, akin to the successful transformation of Kankaria Lake,” Parmar added, underscoring AMC’s commitment to enhancing urban spaces and mitigating future encroachments. A fortified wall is set to replace debris once clearance operations conclude, preventing unauthorized reoccupation and safeguarding the lake’s integrity for future generations.

Law enforcement personnel, including officers from Ahmedabad Crime Branch and local police units, maintained a visible presence during the demolition process. Patrolling from Suryanagar Police Post to Shah Alam ensured public safety amid occasional disruptions caused by onlookers. “We are actively ensuring compliance with evacuation orders and securing vacated premises,” confirmed a senior police officer overseeing the operation.

As demolition efforts continue, authorities remain vigilant, inspecting vacant spaces and enforcing evacuation protocols to streamline the transformation of Chandola Lake. Any lingering non-compliance is swiftly addressed to facilitate seamless progress toward redevelopment goals.

The ambitious initiative aims to open up approximately 2.50 lakh sq. m of reclaimed land, laying the groundwork for future recreational and ecological enhancements. Chandola Lake’s metamorphosis is poised to set a precedent for sustainable urban renewal in Ahmedabad, aligning with broader civic aspirations for enhanced livability and environmental stewardship.