Hyderabad, May 15: The newly formed government in West Bengal has launched a major drive against illegal constructions, drawing comparisons with the “bulldozer model” associated with Yogi Adityanath in Uttar Pradesh.
Authorities in Siliguri have started demolishing alleged illegal structures using bulldozers as part of a large scale enforcement operation.
The move comes within days of the new administration assuming office in the State.
Darjeeling MP Raju Bista supported the demolition drive and said the government would take strict action against illegal encroachments and unauthorised constructions.
According to officials, the State government is reportedly arranging nearly two dozen bulldozers from Uttar Pradesh to strengthen the demolition operations.
A high level review meeting was conducted in Siliguri on Thursday to discuss illegal constructions and law and order issues.
The meeting was attended by the Sub Divisional Magistrate, Police Commissioner, Superintendent of Police and other district officials.
Officials reviewed issues related to illegal structures, encroachments, drug activities and unauthorised liquor and bar establishments in the region.
After the meeting, Raju Bista alleged that illegal constructions had increased on a large scale in Siliguri and said authorities could no longer ignore the issue.
He also criticised officials and civic authorities of the Siliguri Municipal Corporation for allegedly failing to control illegal constructions over the years.
The MP stated that explanations would be sought from concerned officials regarding the alleged inaction.
Authorities also announced plans to clear encroachments on government lands, water bodies and tanks across Siliguri.
The demolition drive has triggered political attention as the administration appears to be adopting a tougher approach against encroachments and illegal structures.
Officials said the operations would continue in phases across different areas in the coming days.
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