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In Chennai, approximately 400 unauthorized dwellings nestled on the banks of the Adyar River in Anakaputhur are slated for removal. This decision follows the inhabitants' uncooperative response to an initiative by local officials for biometric verification, according to a top representative from the Water Resources Department (WRD).
The joint venture, which involved the Chennai Corporation, the Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board (TNUHDB), and Revenue Authorities, was initiated to ascertain the identities of these illegal settlers. The team was tasked with gathering biometric data and cross-checking it against their Aadhaar and ration cards.
However, the residents expressed discontent with the proposed relocation plan, refusing to comply with the verification process. This lack of cooperation resulted in the issuance of demolition orders by the WRD, granting a one-week eviction period before the commencement of the clearing operation. The orders were subsequently affixed to the encroached properties.
"The relocation plan involves shifting these residents to the newly established TNUHD residential units," explained the official. "Given their lack of cooperation, we had no choice but to issue the demolition notices."
In a display of assertive action, the WRD executed the first phase of their plan on Friday by tearing down several illegally erected establishments along the riverbank. A dozen shops and four vacant residences in the vicinity of the Anakaputhur bus stand were cleared. Unlike the upcoming operation, this action faced minimal resistance from property owners as they had been given due notice.
This move has been long overdue as the continued unlawful occupation and construction along the river bank pose a significant threat to the health of the Adyar River, a lifeline for the residents of Chennai. This initiative reaffirms the commitment of the authorities to take stringent measures against unauthorized encroachments, a menace to the sustainable urban development of Chennai.
In conclusion, the demolition, although delayed due to resistance, symbolizes a turning point in the regulation of unauthorised dwellings in Chennai. It underscores the government's commitment to uphold the rule of law while ensuring the protection of essential natural resources, like the Adyar River. The authorities are optimistic that their strategic move will serve as a deterrent to future encroachers.
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