Munnar authorities resume eviction drive, demolish 16 shops near Botanical Garden

Munnar: After several years’ gap, authorities have resumed the removal of roadside encroachments in Munnar town.

Sixteen shops near the Botanical Garden were demolished on Tuesday alone, by a team led by Devikulam sub-collector V M Arya.Although notices were issued three days earlier directing the occupants to vacate the area, the traders failed to comply, prompting officials to carry out the eviction drive.One establishment was exempted from demolition after its owner obtained a stay order from the high court on the grounds that its removal would affect livelihood.

The action comes amid concerns over the possibility of landslides in the area as the southwest monsoon intensifies.

The location had witnessed a major landslide during the previous monsoon season, in which a lorry was buried under debris and its driver lost his life.The old Munnar Govt College building, which was damaged in the 2018 floods, is also situated nearby.

Considering these factors, the Idukki district collector, who also serves as the district disaster management authority, had directed officials to remove roadside encroachments in the area.

The issue was also raised during an all-party meeting convened recently to discuss measures to ease traffic congestion in Munnar.Officials stated that strict action would continue in the coming days to remove encroachments and improve traffic flow in the town.

The eviction drive was carried out jointly by the revenue department, police and panchayat authorities under the leadership of Devikulam sub-collector, Munnar police inspector and panchayat secretary.You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Kochi | Silver Rate in Kochi | Bank Holidays in Kochi | Public Holidays in KochiStay updated with the latest Kochi news.

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