GURUGRAM: Authorities recently concluded a five-day demolition campaign, removing nearly 100 encroachments along a crucial 1.5-km stretch of the Farrukhnagar-Daboda road, connecting to the KMP Expressway.
The operation was initiated to alleviate traffic congestion and restore the road to its approved width of 60-66 feet. Many areas had narrowed to just 35-40 feet, causing frequent traffic issues and safety risks.
Led by duty magistrate RS Batth, the operation lasted 8-9 hours each day, ending on Tuesday. Officials confirmed that the effort was preceded by demarcation from the revenue department and extensive communication with local shopkeepers and residents to secure their cooperation.
Authorities emphasized the importance of this stretch for neighboring villages and townships. Encroachment details were shared beforehand, and demarcation was reverified throughout the operation to address property owners’ objections.
The demolition saw nearly 100 structures dismantled, including nine three- to four-story buildings and around 30 double-story constructions. Many residents voluntarily removed parts of their properties and cleared debris from their shops, with some utilizing heavy-duty cutting machines for efficiency. As a result, approximately 35 feet of additional width was regained along the road.
Over 100 police personnel, including the SHO of Farrukhnagar, were deployed alongside teams from the civic body, revenue department, fire brigade, ambulance services, and depot authorities. Two JCBs and a poclain machine were employed during the operation.
Farrukhnagar civic secretary Rajesh Sharma, along with a municipal team of around 20 staff members and revenue officials, monitored the entire drive. Officials noted that preparations for this operation started a month earlier when the nodal officer visited the site to ask residents for their support.
Despite initial worries among some shopkeepers, no protests were reported during the drive. Many residents later expressed their approval of the action and called for similar initiatives in other congested areas. The Farrukhnagar civic body plans to redevelop the road over the next 10 months at an estimated cost of Rs 7 crore. This project will focus on improving carriageways, footpaths, green verges, and drainage systems to enhance traffic flow and connectivity.
Officials believe this drive may serve as a benchmark for future anti-encroachment efforts in the region.
