Goalpara, 16 June (HS): A sweeping eviction drive unfolded in Goalpara district on Monday as authorities began clearing encroachments from around 1,500 bighas of government land in the Hasila Beel region.

Led by the civil administration and backed by heavy police deployment, the drive targets over 667 illegal households and unauthorized establishments, including schools and public utility sites.

Five educational institutions and a Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) project—operating without clearance—are among the structures being removed, officials confirmed.

Before the operation, the administration conducted a thorough awareness and notice campaign. Illegal occupants were repeatedly asked to vacate through formal notices and public broadcasts made via banners and loudspeakers. The final deadline to leave was set for June 15.

However, despite the notices, numerous encroachments—ranging from concrete houses and shops to bore wells and water pipelines—remained intact. These are now marked for demolition under the ongoing operation.

Police have established a robust security perimeter to ensure the eviction proceeds smoothly, minimizing the risk of disruption or conflict.

Officials clarified that the eviction is not an isolated measure but part of a long-term effort to reclaim public land for developmental and welfare purposes.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash