Prayagraj,

20 May (HS): A Joint Anti-Encroachment Drive was conducted on Wednesday at 1000

hours in the Area of Responsibility of Fort Cantonment, Prayagraj, for removal

of unauthorized encroachments existing on Defence land. The drive covered the

route from Kila Ghat to Akshayavat Road, VIP Ghat, Sangam Marg Road and Mahavir

Road (Hanuman Mandir Axis). Approximately 50 unauthorized kiosks, temporary

shops and encroachments were removed during the operation. Representatives from

Mela Authority Prayagraj, Cantonment Board Prayagraj, Security Staff and Quick

Reaction Team (QRT) of Ord Depot Prayagraj, along with Civil Police personnel,

participated in the drive. No damage to life, public property or vehicles was

reported during the operation.

During

the earlier coordination conference, four major temporary structures situated

on Survey No. 70 A/1 of Defence land had been identified for further discussion

with the Station Commander before final resolution. These structures presently

continue to remain on Defence land pending final decision. Despite repeated

coordination meetings and three consecutive anti-encroachment drives, complete

vacation of Defence land has not yet been achieved. Consequently, formal

handing/taking over of the land remains incomplete.

Certain

operational limitations were also experienced during the drive, including

shortfall of police personnel, inadequate availability of lady police staff and

non-availability of requisitioned mechanical support. Officials stated that

these factors affected the pace and effectiveness of enforcement activities. The

Local Military Authority reiterated that all remaining encroachments are

required to be removed and the land restored in a clear and unencumbered

condition prior to formal handing/taking over, informed PRO & Spokesperson,

Ministry of Defence, Prayagraj.

Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi