Illegal structures being demolished near Ganga River front in Patna. Photo: Aftab Alam Siddiqui
By A Correspondent
Patna: Acting on the directives of the Patna District Magistrate, a special anti-encroachment drive along the Ganga riverbank continued for the ninth consecutive day, with authorities removing illegal constructions from unsurveyed land. On Monday, nearly 25 permanent unauthorised structures behind Sabhyata Dwar were demolished.
District Magistrate Thiyagarajan SM stated that the Ganga riverfront in Patna is of immense public importance, with several key development projects underway. “No obstruction to these public welfare initiatives will be tolerated. Encroachments along the Ganga cannot be allowed,” he said, directing officials not only to clear existing encroachments but also to ensure that no fresh encroachments occur. He warned that strict legal action would be taken against anyone attempting to hinder the drive.
The District Magistrate noted that large portions of unsurveyed land along the river had been illegally occupied, with anti-social elements erecting structures for vested interests. He termed the situation “regrettable” and instructed sub-divisional officials to intensify eviction efforts to improve public amenities. He reiterated that unsurveyed land in the river zone is deemed government property, and no individual claim over such land is valid.
Citing orders of the National Green Tribunal and the Supreme Court, he emphasised that construction of any kind is prohibited in these areas, including on private land falling within the floodplain. Officials have been directed to remove encroachments strictly in accordance with these judicial directives.
The demolition drive was carried out under the supervision of sub-divisional magistrates and police officers, with senior officials deployed to oversee operations. Adequate numbers of magistrates and police personnel have been assigned to ensure the effective removal of illegal structures. Authorities have also been instructed to initiate punitive action against habitual encroachers.
The District Magistrate added that once the encroachments are cleared, the land will be utilised by government departments and agencies for various public welfare projects.
Ongoing Drive Since April 18
The campaign, which began on April 18, has been conducted continuously across Patna Sadar and Patna City subdivisions. Unsurveyed government land between the Collectorate and Digha Ghat, as well as from Gaighat to Kangan Ghat, is being cleared of encroachments.
So far, around 145 permanent structures, including houses and shops, have been demolished, while approximately 180 temporary structures such as huts, kiosks, sheds, cattle enclosures and garages have been removed. A penalty amounting to ₹21,000 has also been recovered during the drive.
Additionally, proceedings have been initiated against other illegal permanent constructions on public land, with around 96 notices issued so far. Officials have stated that due process will be followed to remove these structures at the earliest.
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