A large-scale demolition drive was carried out on Tuesday along the Halol–Shamlaji State Highway passing through Shahra town in Panchmahal district to clear encroachments and ease traffic congestion. The Gujarat State Road Development Corporation (GSRDC), in coordination with the local administration, undertook the operation to free the highway from obstructions caused by unpaved embankments and unauthorised structures on both sides of the road.
The demolition work began early in the morning, covering the stretch from the Sahera bus station area to Aniyad Chokdi. Using JCB machines, teams removed sheet metal sheds, shop extensions and other illegal structures that were encroaching on the highway. Adequate police force was deployed at the site to maintain law and order and prevent any untoward incidents.
Senior officials monitored the operation, including the GSRDC Deputy Executive Engineer, City Provincial Officer, Municipal Chief Officer and officials from the toll department.
Officials said that GSRDC had earlier issued legal notices to more than 200 encroachers, asking them to remove the structures voluntarily. After the deadline expired, the administration proceeded with the demolition to clear the road and restore smooth traffic movement.