Bhopal Administration Begins Anti-Encroachment Drive at Bhoj Wetland Amid Debate

The Bhopal district administration initiated an anti-encroachment drive targeting illegal constructions near the Bhoj Wetland, focusing on areas within 50 metres of the Full Tank Level in urban zones and 250 metres in rural zones. While over 200 structures were marked for demolition, visible enforcement reportedly lasted only one day, raising concerns about the drive's effectiveness. Officials base actions on the Wetland Act effective from March 16, 2022, but environmentalists criticize this date-based approach, arguing that ecological harm is not limited to recent constructions.