Rajkot’s Biggest-Ever Demolition Sparks Crisis

City-Wide Demolition in Rajkot Displaces Families; Authorities Urged to Provide Immediate Relief to Vulnerable Residents    

The city of Rajkot is witnessing its largest-ever demolition drive, leaving several residents displaced, including a widow in Jangleshwar who has been rendered homeless and is seeking urgent shelter and rehabilitation from authorities. The drive, aimed at clearing unauthorized constructions and encroachments, has been met with public distress, as residents claim they were given little notice to vacate their homes.

The widow, identified as Meena Ben, told reporters, “I have nowhere to go. My house was demolished yesterday, and I am now living in the open. I request the administration to provide temporary shelter and rehabilitation.” Local officials confirmed that the demolition is part of a city-wide plan to reclaim public land and improve urban infrastructure, but emphasized that rehabilitation measures are being considered for affected families.

Authorities said that over 50 structures in Jangleshwar and surrounding localities have been demolished so far, and more are scheduled in the coming days. The city administration has claimed that prior notices were served, but residents allege the communication was inadequate. NGOs and local community leaders have appealed for immediate relief for vulnerable residents, particularly widows, elderly, and low-income families who are at risk of extreme hardship.

This demolition drive has sparked debate on balancing urban development with social responsibility, as Rajkot authorities work to modernize the city while managing humanitarian concerns. Meanwhile, displaced families await clear directives on temporary housing and long-term rehabilitation.