On May 5, 2025, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) commenced a significant demolition drive at Taimoor Nagar, targeting illegal constructions that have long obstructed the flow of sewage and rainwater. The operation involved over half a dozen bulldozers and began at 9 AM, with the authorities removing around 100 structures situated along the banks of the Taimoor Nagar drain. This action followed a directive from the Delhi High Court, which had refused to grant a stay on the demolitions just days prior.
The High Court's decision was influenced by recent flooding incidents in various parts of Delhi, particularly in South Delhi, which were attributed to the drain's inability to discharge rainwater downstream due to encroachments. Residents had previously raised concerns about illegal garbage dumping and unauthorized construction, which reduced the drain's capacity and caused polluted water to backflow into upscale localities like Maharani Bagh and New Friends Colony.
Raju Vaid, who lived in Taimoor Nagar for 35 years, described the emotional toll of the demolition. "We have been living here for so many years… and now that we are being removed from here, we are not getting anything in return. I understand that the drain needs to be cleaned, but at least they should have given us somewhere to live," he lamented. Vaid, who works as a cleaner at a nearby school, expressed his concerns about the financial burden of paying rent after being forced to vacate his home.
As the bulldozers rolled in, Vaid and his family hurriedly removed their last belongings. Other residents watched anxiously, fearing that their homes would be next. Lekhraj, a 40-year-old local, claimed ownership of the land where his house stood. Despite presenting court orders that supported his claim, his home was demolished. "Even after I showed them orders from the court… the bulldozer crushed our home. When the notice was issued, I was at the hospital getting my uncle treated. So I got to know about the demolition today," he said.
Maidul Abdul Aziz, who has lived in Taimoor Nagar for 45 years, echoed the sentiments of many residents who felt abandoned. "How can we be thrown away like this? We got a flat allotted by DUSIB (Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board) in 2013 in Baprola. But they didn’t give us anything eventually. Today, they are going to demolish our homes. Where will I take my eight children and grandchildren?" he asked, visibly distressed.
The demolition drive was not without its supporters. Residents from neighboring areas expressed relief, hoping that the removal of illegal structures would lead to better drainage and less waterlogging during the monsoon season. Rajiv Gupta, president of the Kalindi Colony Residents' Welfare Association (RWA), stated, "This is the main drain in south Delhi. Our colony faces persistent waterlogging of the main road and water stagnation in our drains due to encroachments, which obstruct flow of sewage and rainwater. Throughout the year, this area is full of mosquitoes, which not only cause great discomfort, but pose a constant threat of vector-borne diseases."
Shiv Mehra, president of the Maharani Bagh RWA, highlighted the ongoing issues faced by his locality, which suffers from unchecked backflow of water and sewage. He noted, "What was originally a stormwater drain has now turned into an open sewage channel, carrying waste from illegal constructions and unregulated discharge points." Chitra S Jain, president of the New Friends Colony RWA, expressed hope that the widening of the drain would yield positive results this year, following some relief last year when drains were desilted.
The DDA's demolition initiative was backed by a significant deployment of personnel from the Delhi Police and paramilitary forces to ensure the operation proceeded smoothly. However, many residents criticized the timing of the notices they received, stating they had lived in the area for 40 to 50 years and were given little time to find alternative housing.
While the DDA and MCD maintain that the demolitions are necessary for public health and safety, residents have called for better communication and support from the government. They demand arrangements for rehabilitation, particularly for those who have lived in the area for decades and now face displacement without compensation or assistance.
As the dust settled on the demolition site, the future remains uncertain for many families in Taimoor Nagar. The court's ruling aimed to address the longstanding issues of flooding and sewage management, but the human cost of such measures raises significant questions about the balance between urban development and the rights of residents. With the monsoon season approaching, the effectiveness of these actions will soon be tested, as residents hope for a solution that ensures both their safety and a cleaner environment.
In the wake of the demolitions, the DDA faces pressure to ensure that the clean-up of the Taimoor Nagar drain is thorough and that measures are put in place to prevent future encroachments. Local leaders emphasize the need for ongoing maintenance and management of the drainage system to protect their communities from the health hazards posed by sewage overflow and stagnant water.
