Kolkata, 14 July (H.S.) : The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), in a joint operation with the Public Works Department (PWD) and Dakshineswar Police, carried out a major anti-encroachment drive beneath Nivedita Bridge in Dakshineswar from late Monday night until Tuesday morning.

During the operation, authorities demolished 196 unauthorised shops and bus kiosks that had allegedly encroached upon land beneath the bridge.

A heavy police deployment was maintained throughout the drive along Dakshineswar PWD Road to ensure law and order and prevent any untoward incidents during the demolition.

The operation drew a large number of local residents and shopkeepers to the site. Several affected traders appealed to the authorities to spare their establishments, while others whose structures were removed sought rehabilitation and requested that the administration provide them with alternative locations for their businesses.

Officials said the drive was undertaken to remove illegal encroachments from beneath the bridge and along the roadway, with the objective of ensuring smooth traffic movement, enhancing public safety and reclaiming public land.

The demolition drive concluded peacefully under tight security, while local residents and affected traders continued to monitor the situation and await further action from the authorities.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh