A new controversy has erupted after the Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) demolished a 200-year-old historic wall in the Astodia area overnight. The opposition has accused AMC officials of destroying the ancient wall to benefit a builder. In response, AMC officials have admitted to the demolition, justifying it by citing the wall’s location on a TP (Town Planning) road and the need to address increasing traffic.

Ahmedabad, known for its heritage, including landmarks like the city gates, Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, Bhadra Fort, and others, has seen a decline in the maintenance of these sites. The demolition of the historic wall by the municipality itself has raised concerns.

The opposition Congress is claiming that the wall near Ashabhil Garden and Geeta Mandir ST bus stand was demolished overnight for the builder’s benefit. They have condemned AMC’s actions and demanded the reconstruction of the wall.

Speaking about the wall, the Deputy Estate Officer and TDO of the Central Zone stated that the wall is not listed by the central or state archaeological departments. The wall was within the road line cut of a 24.38-metre TP road, and permission was obtained from the authority to demolish the 181.15-metre-long wall. 

The Heritage Conservation Committee also recommended the demolition due to increasing traffic on the road, said the official.

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