Chaupati at Dargah chowk cleared after 15 years

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

In a major anti-encroachment drive, the municipal corporation on Thursday cleared 173 encroachments at Chaupati near Shahnoormiyan Dargah Chowk, freeing the area after nearly 15 years. Mild lathi-charge was used after some youths resisted, briefly escalating tensions.

The operation, resumed from Seven Hills chowk on Wednesday, began at Dargah Chowk at 11 am. Despite warnings to remove goods, several shopkeepers failed to comply. The corporation deployed five JCBs, one poclain, five tippers and around 100 personnel. No shop at the Chaupati was spared. Heavy police bandobast was in place. Coordinating officer Santosh Wahule, ACP Manish Kalyankar, police inspector Sachin Kumbhar and Sangram Tathe intervened to restore order. Deputy commissioner Savita Sonawane and other officials were present.

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Action up to Bhajivali Bai statue

The drive continued till late night, clearing both sides of the road up to Bhajivali Bai statue towards Osmanpura as per the 15-metre road width plan. Action will continue up to Anand Gade Chowk.

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Obstruction and complaint

Meanwhile, a case was registered at the Jawaharnagar police station after Chand Pasha Syed allegedly obstructed duty, abused and pushed assistant commissioner Sheikh Samiuddin during the drive.