Demolition work at Delhi’s Yamuna Bazar ghats began on the morning of June 25. Earlier, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) had issued notices directing all families to vacate their homes and clear the site by June 24, suggesting they could relocate to night shelters in Geeta Colony or other urban shelter homes in Delhi.
The DDA maintains that the land belongs to them and that the entire area lies within the Yamuna floodplain. The residents living there, they argue, were encroachers. However, the temple located on the riverbank was left standing during the operation; only the residential structures were demolished. In May this year, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) issued notices to evict those living near the Yamuna Bazar ghats.
There are about 32 ghats in Yamuna Bazar, home to around 310 families and a total population of about 1,100 people. Most residents rely on livelihoods linked to the rituals performed at the Yamuna ghats, ranging from religious ceremonies and flower sales to boat rides.
Prabha, a long-time resident, says, “If you suddenly tell someone to vacate their home, where are they supposed to go? We have lived here for years. When floods occur, we are the ones who clean up the mess. (Chief Minister) Rekha Gupta only comes here to get her photo taken.”
Suresh, President of the Yamuna Ghat Panda Association, stated that the electricity supply was cut off around 3:00 am on June 25, followed by the suspension of the water supply. The demolition began shortly after.
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