Encroachers Break AMC Seals, Return to Illegally Occupied EWS Homes
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
The Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has launched a crackdown on illegal occupation of vacant Economically Weaker Section (EWS) housing units in the city, sealing 14 houses that were allegedly occupied by unauthorised residents in Ambawadi and Shahpur.
The action follows instructions from AMC Housing Committee Chairman Darshan Shah amid concerns over repeated encroachments in houses that are yet to be allotted under civic housing schemes.
14 Houses Sealed in Ambawadi and Shahpur
According to AMC officials, four illegally occupied houses near Azad Society in Ambawadi and 10 houses in the Jupiter Mill compound area of Shahpur were vacated and sealed during the drive.
However, civic authorities said the occupants later broke the official seals and locks and re-entered the properties.
Encroachers Return Despite Sealing Action
Following the fresh incidents, officials from the Estate Department resealed the houses and reinforced the entrances with plywood sheets to prevent further unauthorised access.
Despite the additional measures, officials reported another break-in at house number B-707, prompting the civic body to consider stricter legal action.
The Deputy Municipal Commissioner has been directed to initiate legal proceedings with police assistance against those involved in the repeated encroachments.
Vacant Houses Become Easy Targets
Under the existing process, the Engineering Department constructs the EWS units before handing them over to the Estate Department for allotment. However, several houses remain vacant even after the draw process, creating opportunities for illegal occupation.
Although the Estate Department conducts periodic inspections and eviction drives, officials admit that unauthorised occupants often return once enforcement activity subsides.
Allegations of Internal Collusion Surface
The issue has also triggered allegations of collusion between certain civic officials and illegal occupants.
Discussions within AMC circles suggest that alleged cooperation between some Estate Department employees and encroachers may be hampering efforts to permanently resolve the problem, although no official confirmation has been issued regarding such claims.
