Ahmedabad, June 6 (AHN) Seven of the 37 families living in Shivnagar near Asaram Ashram in Ahmedabad have accepted a government rehabilitation package and vacated their homes, as authorities moved ahead with the removal of unauthorised constructions following directions issued by the Gujarat High Court.

Officials on Saturday announced a rehabilitation plan for all affected families, offering new houses in Chandkheda along with temporary accommodation or monthly rent assistance until permanent housing is ready.

According to officials, the 37 families were allotted plots measuring 50 square yards by the government several years ago.

Under the conditions of the allotment certificates, beneficiaries were permitted to construct only on 37.50 square yards of the allotted land and were required to leave 12.50 square yards open.

Authorities said some residents subsequently carried out construction beyond the allotted area and encroached upon government land.

Notices were issued by the Estate Department of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation's West Zone in accordance with legal provisions.

The matter later reached the High Court, which directed authorities to remove constructions exceeding the permitted 50-square-yard limit.

Officials said residents were informed on several occasions about the court's directions and were asked to remove the unauthorised portions of the structures.

However, as the constructions remained in place, enforcement action was initiated in compliance with the High Court's orders.

While proceeding with the demolition, the government announced a rehabilitation-focused approach for affected families.

In a statement, authorities said: “Importantly, the government has adopted a sensitive approach not only in carrying out the action but also in rehabilitating the affected families.”

Under the rehabilitation scheme, new houses will be allotted at Chandkheda to residents of Shivnagar and their adult family members in exchange for the land required for public purposes.

The government further stated: “In addition, until the new houses are ready, arrangements have been made either to provide monthly rent assistance of Rs 10,000 as an alternative arrangement or to offer temporary accommodation in available housing units at Keshavnagar in Chandkheda.”

The government has appealed to the remaining residents to avail themselves of the rehabilitation package, which includes permanent housing, temporary accommodation, and financial assistance during the transition period.

Officials said further action regarding the unauthorised constructions will continue in accordance with the High Court's directions.