HDMC cracks the whip against shops encroaching land at Dharwad market

DHARWAD: The Hubballi Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) which had to repeatedly abort demolishing illegal encroachments in a super market in Dharwad has succeeded in removing the structures. Earlier, the demolition drives had faced the resistance of shopkeepers and pressure from local politicians.
Amid tight police security, earthmovers demolished the structures that had come up illegally occupying space meant for roads and drains.
The super market is spread over five acres. The encroachment has shrunk a 40-foot road inside the market to less than eight feet.
HDMC officials said 180 to 200 shops were removed from this stretch of the road although shopkeepers again tried to obstruct work.
This time, however, the officials were firm.
In earlier instances, a handful of Congress leaders appeared on the scene and tried to obstruct the clearing operation. There are also allegations that some persons supported by Congress leaders had occupied a large portion of the market and constructed sheds illegally and rented them out as godowns.
“The interference by the politicians in the development of the market for their gain had become a major obstacle. It is good that the authorities have dealt with these leaders firmly and acted according to the law,” said senior citizen Mahabaleshwar Sindagi.
The court had directed the HDMC to remove the illegal structures and take up development work in the market.
HDMC commissioner B Gopalkrishna told TOI on Wednesday that the municipal corporation has decided to lay a road here and construct drains on both sides so that rainwater does not gush into the market.
“We have identified legitimate occupants of shops and after constructing platforms for selling vegetables and other items, the space will be allotted to the listed legitimate traders. In addition, facilities like drinking water, toilets and sanitation will be provided,”Goplkrishna said.
Plans are afoot to provide a resting area for senior citizens and a playing area for children. This can be done in a public-private participation model, Gopalkrishna added.