The Gujarat administration has launched its largest-ever demolition drive in Gir Somnath district to clear illegal constructions near the renowned Somnath temple. The massive operation, which began on the night of September 27, is part of efforts to pave the way for the ambitious Somnath Development Project and is still ongoing.
Officials have deployed 36 bulldozers to tear down unauthorized structures, with 70 tractors and trolleys working around the clock to remove debris. Described as the most extensive demolition in the district’s history, the drive is focused on dismantling illegal buildings behind the Somnath temple.
To ensure smooth execution, strict security measures have been implemented. A sizable police force of 1,200 personnel, led by senior officials including district collectors, IGPs, three SPs, six DySPs, and 50 PI-PSIs, is overseeing the operation. The authorities have also had to address some resistance, detaining 70 individuals from a religious site that was obstructing the demolition efforts.
Heavy machinery, including five Hitachi machines, 30 JCBs, 50 tractors, and 10 dumpers, has been deployed to overcome obstacles. For public safety, the entire demolition zone has been cordoned off, and access is restricted to authorized personnel only. Traffic management measures have also been implemented, with routes at Somnath Circle and Bhidiya Circle temporarily closed.
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As the drive continues, its full impact on the region and the Somnath Development Project remains to be seen.
Earlier in January 2024, Gujarat authorities initiated a large-scale anti-encroachment operation targeting approximately three hectares (7.4 acres) of illegally occupied land behind the revered Somnath temple. According to Collector Harji Vadhvaniya, the operation aimed to demolish 21 unauthorized houses and 153 illegal huts, constructed without permission on land owned by the Shree Somnath Trust, which oversees the temple’s operations in collaboration with the Gujarat government.
This extensive operation involved five mamlatdars (revenue officers), 100 revenue officials, and a substantial police presence to maintain order. Following the demolition, authorities plan to fence the reclaimed land as per the directives from the state’s revenue department.
The Somnath temple, located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval on the Arabian Sea coast, holds significant religious and cultural value. As the foremost among the 12 jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is a major pilgrimage destination and a key tourist attraction.
