The survival of Bhopal’s lifeline, the Upper Lake, faces a severe crisis as illegal permanent structures have mushroomed within the 50-meter restricted ecological zone. Following a recent survey by the district administration, a massive anti-encroachment drive is set to commence this Monday on Van Vihar Road. The Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) has finalised its strategy and co-ordinated with the Police Department to ensure a smooth demolition process, targeting structures that have long defied environmental regulations. The illegal occupation of Van Vihar Road has evolved significantly over the last decade. Local accounts suggest that approximately ten years ago, the stretch hosted only 20 to 25 mobile pushcarts.

 

Over time, these temporary set-ups were replaced by kiosks and eventually transformed into permanent concrete shops. Currently, more than 100 such illegal structures exist, not only violating the Full Tank Level (FTL) norms but also causing severe traffic congestion for tourists visiting the scenic route. The administration and the civic body have conducted an intensive two-month-long survey of the lake’s catchment zones. ADM Ankur Meshram stated that 347 encroachments have been officially identified within the FTL and catchment boundaries. While previous drives have successfully cleared encroachments from Prempura Ghat, Khanugaon, and Halalpur, the focus has now shifted to Van Vihar Road and the Boat Club area, where commercial encroachments are most prevalent.

 

Sources indicate that the BMC’s encroachment wing was prepared to act two weeks ago, but the drive was deferred due to intervention from local political leaders. The leaders had assured the administration that shopkeepers would voluntarily remove their structures and requested a grace period. However, as the deadline passed without any self-demolition, the administration has adopted a stern stance, clarifying that the demolition process will proceed on Monday without further concessions or delays. ADM Ankur Meshram emphasised that all encroachments identified during the demarcation process must be removed to protect the lake’s ecosystem. A comprehensive list of illegal constructions at the Boat Club is also ready for action. The Bhopal Municipal Corporation has asserted that the drive will be conducted with total transparency, and no political or commercial pressure will be entertained when it comes to the preservation and conservation of the Upper Lake.