Ulhasnagar/Ambernath: The Ulhasnagar corporation carried out a demolition drive at Ekta Nagar in Camp 5, Kailash Colony, to clear land for the Ambernath Shiv Mandir beautification project on March 7. The action triggered strong protests from local residents, leading to a tense standoff in the area.

The demolition drive was led by Ganesh Shimpi, head of UMC’s Anti-Unauthorized Construction Squad, along with Alka Pawar, Assistant Commissioner of Ward Committee 4. Considering the sensitive situation, a heavy police force from Shivajinagar Police Station in Ambernath was deployed. Many residents, who claim to have lived in the area for 30 to 40 years, opposed the demolition. Women protesters gathered in large numbers, raising slogans and attempting to block officials from carrying out the operation. Police detained several protesters before completing the demolition under tight security.

The dispute revolves around jurisdiction. While the land falls under UMC, the Shiv Mandir beautification project is being implemented by the Ambernath Municipal Council. Officials explained, “Around 30 houses were affected as part of the beautification project, and UMC was acting on government directives to clear the land.”

Assistant Commissioner, UMC Alka Pawar said, “This action was taken to hand over the land to the State Government for the implementation of the Shiv Mandir project. The residents were served with formal notices well in advance. The responsibility for the rehabilitation of these residents lies with the Ambernath Municipal Council.”

However, residents expressed anger over the lack of clarity regarding rehabilitation. “We have been living here for decades, and today our homes were razed without any written assurance of where we are supposed to go. The protests will continue until proper alternative housing or compensation is provided,” the resident stated.