Chandola Lake in Ahmedabad is about to undergo major changes. Starting from May 20, the second phase of demolition will begin. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) is taking action against illegal structures around the lake. Recently, a survey was conducted by the estate department to identify these buildings. All residents have been instructed to vacate their homes. This phase aims to tackle more illegal constructions, possibly involving local land mafias.
Chandola Lake has around 10,000 structures, both permanent and temporary. Approximately 3,000 residents have filled out forms for alternative housing provided by the government. Those living there before 2010 are eligible for these options. The AMC has begun surveying all buildings in the area, and as they clear out properties, demolition will proceed accordingly.
The police and AMC teams are working together to ensure safety during this process. Some areas require boundary walls or fencing to secure the site. The municipal commissioner has assigned various department officials to oversee this operation.
This demolition follows a previous phase where many structures were also dismantled. In just four days, around 4,500 buildings were taken down, including 1,500 permanent ones. The second phase will focus on smaller shanties and unlawful constructions. A video conference led by Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi will discuss the progress and future steps.
Chandola Lake and its surroundings have a notorious reputation due to illegal activities. The area has been described as a mini Bangladesh and spans 1,200 hectares. The lake, originally built by the wife of a Mughal sultan, has become a hotspot for crime and illegal settlements.
The AMC’s efforts aim to restore the lake’s environment and reduce pollution caused by encroachments. Over the past 14 years, illegal constructions have caused significant damage to the lake’s capacity. The lake’s storage capacity has decreased from 8.78 lakh cubic meters in 2010 to 7.58 lakh cubic meters in 2024.
The AMC plans to ensure that the cleared land remains free from future encroachments. Currently, about 125,698 square meters of land is still occupied, and the goal is to reclaim an additional 5 lakh square meters. The municipal corporation is committed to taking necessary actions to maintain the lake and protect it from further illegal activities.
The situation at Chandola Lake reflects broader issues of urban development and illegal constructions in India. The ongoing demolition serves as a critical step in managing urban spaces and ensuring that environmental standards are upheld. As the AMC continues its work, the community is hopeful for a cleaner and safer environment around Chandola Lake.