Kandla Port Area Freed: 100 Acres Cleared in Gujarat’s Aggressive Anti-Encroachment Operation
Gujarat authorities executed a large-scale demolition drive around Deendayal Port (formerly Kandla Port) in Kutch district, razing unauthorized structures across nearly 100 acres of strategic waterfront land. The operation targets long-standing illegal occupations that hindered port expansion and national security interests, reclaiming prime real estate for infrastructure growth.
Strategic Push for Port Modernization
Port authorities coordinated with district administration under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel’s directives to accelerate the ₹6,000 crore Kandla expansion project, vital for India’s maritime trade amid rising global cargo volumes. Officials emphasize prior notices issued since 2023, with surveys identifying 150+ acres under encroachment by scrap yards, godowns, and residences.
The drive aligns with nationwide urban renewal efforts, freeing space for deeper berths, container terminals, and green energy projects at the port handling 25% of India’s EXIM cargo.
Local Reactions and Relocation Measures
- Affected residents claim sudden evictions despite promises of alternatives; admin provides temporary shelters and ₹10,000 aid per family.
- Traders protest loss of livelihoods, demand compensation for demolished assets.
- Gujarat govt defends action as “zero tolerance” to illegal land grabs near critical infrastructure.
No major law-and-order issues reported during the exercise, monitored by heavy police deployment. The cleared land paves way for Kandla’s upgrade into a world-class hub, boosting Gujarat’s logistics edge.
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