The Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) on Tuesday carried out an anti-encroachment drive at Kamal Lake, also known as Umla Talawadi, in the Sardarnagar ward, targeting around 150 illegal structures in the area.
The demolition at Kamal Talawadi on ITI Road in Kubernagar is being conducted under heavy police presence and has so far remained peaceful. AMC officials said the removal of encroachments is the first step in a proposed redevelopment plan for the lake, aimed at reclaiming public land and restoring the waterbody.
The action, however, has triggered strong protests from local residents, with several families— including women and children—left distressed and without shelter. Affected residents said they were not opposing relocation but demanded that alternative housing be provided before eviction.
Locals alleged that while they had received notices, the civic body did not offer any rehabilitation plan or temporary accommodation. “We are willing to vacate if we are given another place to stay, but we have nowhere to go,” residents said.
One resident, Manasvi, spoke about the difficulties faced by her family, noting that her grandfather is paralysed and her mother recently underwent surgery. She added that the uncertainty has disrupted her education, as she has been unable to attend school for nearly a month since the notices were served.
Residents have appealed to the authorities for immediate rehabilitation, reiterating that they will vacate the area once alternative housing is arranged.