The Municipal Corporation of Sambhal has intensified its anti-encroachment drive, demolishing several illegal constructions along key city routes, including Chandausi Road, in an effort to reclaim public spaces and improve urban infrastructure ahead of the monsoon season.
The operation, which began on Tuesday and continued into Wednesday morning, saw the use of bulldozers to clear encroachments obstructing public pathways and drainage systems. The campaign forms part of a larger urban development plan focused on road widening and decongesting traffic-heavy zones. In a rare show of cooperation, many local shopkeepers voluntarily removed unauthorised extensions before municipal teams arrived, indicating growing public support for the initiative. Municipal Council Executive Officer Dr Mani Bhushan Tiwari personally oversaw the operations to ensure effective execution. “This initiative is crucial for the cleanliness and beautification of the city,” he told IANS. He confirmed that the drive follows directives from the District Magistrate, with a priority to clear drains and widen roads before heavy rains begin.
In a significant and symbolic move, the administration also demolished a government facility — the Police Assistance Centre located at the Chandausi intersection. The structure fell within the designated road widening zone and was removed in the presence of Sub-Divisional Magistrate Vandana Mishra and officials from the Regulation Department. Before the demolition, all belongings were cleared and the electricity supply to the building was officially disconnected. The removal of a government structure has drawn attention as it reflects the administration’s determination to enforce regulations impartially, sending a strong message that no entity will be exempt from public infrastructure projects. Officials say that the campaign will continue across other areas of the city in the coming days. The focus will remain on clearing obstructions that affect pedestrian movement, traffic circulation, and drainage systems.
The urban revamp is expected to significantly enhance the city’s mobility and safety, especially as monsoon approaches. Residents and commuters stand to benefit from reduced congestion and improved road access once the campaign concludes. With public cooperation and visible administrative resolve, Sambhal’s anti-encroachment campaign could become a model for other small cities grappling with unchecked urban sprawl and encroachment-related civic issues
