The government of Gujarat has swung into action to take back the government’s land. The whole issue came to light when the government initiated strict steps to regain its property near Somath temple. There were a number of illegal constructions, which included even a 500-year-old graveyard and over 50 buildings.

To get back the area and elevate the mandir’s grandeur, the government initiated a major campaign to destroy all the illegal establishments.

According to district Magistrate DD Jadeja, the administration had already issued notices, a long ago to vacate the illegal encroachment. However, the area remained occupied despite warnings.

A massive operation to clear illegal encroachments near the revered Somnath Mandir in Gujarat's Gir Somnath district commenced late at night and continued through the following day. The large-scale operation, which involved 36 bulldozers, hundreds of tractors, and dumpers, was supported by 1,400 police personnel. The goal was to clear 102 acres of government land that had been unlawfully occupied by various structures. The operation attracted significant public attention, with large crowds gathering to witness the demolitions.

The encroachments, which covered a total of 103 acres, were situated just 1.5 kilometres from the Somnath Mandir. Among the illegal structures removed were mosques, dargahs, and even a 500-year-old graveyard. Authorities had identified these structures as being constructed without proper authorisation, prompting the state government to take action. This aggressive move to reclaim public land has been described as part of a larger effort to preserve the sanctity of the Somnath Mandir and ensure the area is free from illegal occupation.

The operation was carried out smoothly, with local police and administrative bodies coordinating the demolition. While the action led to protests from some quarters, the authorities maintained a robust security presence to prevent any disruption. Law enforcement officials ensured that the demolition proceeded without any violent incidents, focusing on removing the illegal structures as efficiently as possible.

In addition to clearing the illegal encroachments, the operation is part of a larger redevelopment plan for the Somnath Mandir. A new corridor, similar to the recently constructed Ujjain Corridor, has been approved by the Union Government. Various development initiatives are underway to enhance the area surrounding the Somnath temple, which holds significant religious importance to Hindus.

The removal of these illegal structures is being hailed as a significant step toward restoring the temple’s surroundings. The development plans for the Somnath Corridor include modernising infrastructure, improving accessibility for devotees, and creating a more organised space around the temple. Local officials and the state government are working together to ensure that these projects are completed in a timely manner to boost tourism and maintain the religious significance of the Somnath Mandir.

This operation is viewed as a milestone in preserving government land and advancing the cultural and religious importance of the Somnath temple.