By: The Trek News Desk
Following the directives of the Supreme Court, the Meerut district administration on Saturday demolished a decades-old illegal commercial complex at the city’s busy Central Market. The early morning operation targeted nearly two dozen unauthorised shops that had been under legal scrutiny for years.
Illegal Complex Standing Since 1986
According to official sources, the structure was built in 1986 without proper planning permission. The complex, located in the heart of Shastri Nagar, had been at the centre of a long-standing legal battle over land use violations.
The Department of Housing and Urban Planning issued evacuation orders late Friday, making public announcements instructing shopkeepers to vacate the premises before the demolition began.
Action in Line with Supreme Court Orders
The case was last heard by the Supreme Court on October 6, 2025, where the court directed the authorities to clear all illegal constructions at the site. Although the next hearing is scheduled for October 27, local officials decided to move ahead with the demolition in compliance with earlier judicial directions.
Chaos in the Market, Tight Security Across the Area
The demolition created a stir among traders and residents alike.
By sunrise, the entire area had been sealed off, turning the market into a high-security zone.
Key security measures included:
- Heavy police deployment across Shastri Nagar
- Fire brigades and emergency teams on standby
- Traffic diversions from adjoining roads
- Additional forces called in from neighbouring districts
Officials stated that the move was essential to enforce urban discipline and crack down on unauthorised constructions across the city.
Traders Express Anger, Plan Legal Response
Local shop owners voiced frustration, claiming they were waiting for the court’s next hearing before any action. Many accused the administration of acting hastily.
Several traders’ associations have announced plans to challenge the demolition in court, terming it a violation of due process.
Part of Uttar Pradesh’s ‘Bulldozer Policy’
The operation is part of the Uttar Pradesh government’s ongoing “Bulldozer Drive”, a campaign aimed at sending a stern message against illegal land use and encroachments.
The Meerut administration reaffirmed its stance, stating:
“No illegal structure will be spared. Such actions will continue and intensify in the coming weeks.”
Impact on Local Life and Businesses
Most of the market’s shops remained shuttered throughout the day, disrupting local trade and daily movement. Traffic jams and diversions affected several nearby neighbourhoods.
Despite criticism, officials maintained that the demolition is a necessary step toward sustainable and regulated urban development.
Source: News Agencies
