Patna: The operation known as Bulldozer has commenced throughout Bihar right after the new government was formed, instilling fear and uncertainty in several cities. The authorities have issued stringent warnings regarding illegal road encroachments, stating that individuals caught occupying public land again will incur heavier fines and face repeated demolitions. Bulldozers have arrived in major cities such as Samastipur, Sitamarhi, Bhagalpur, Muzaffarpur, Danapur, Lakhisarai, and Bihar Sharif, where both temporary and permanent structures are being dismantled. Reports from different districts reveal that many shopkeepers and vendors are in a state of panic as the campaign is ongoing.
The first significant action occurred in Samastipur just hours after the government was sworn in, clearing encroachments near Goods Warehouse Chowk adjacent to the railway station, with the presence of the Railway Protection Force, Railway Police, and local law enforcement. Tensions escalated as residents and shopkeepers confronted officials, seeking additional time to move their belongings. Following intense discussions, a 10-day extension was granted, but officials emphasized that the removal process would persist and that roads must remain free of encroachments. In Lakhisarai, the anti-encroachment operation intensified on Sunday, led by DM Mithilesh Mishra and SP Ajay Kumar, with support from municipal officers and police personnel.
For almost three hours, bulldozers cleared tin sheds, shutters, and permanent extensions obstructing road space from Shaheed Dwar to Pachna Road. The administration warned that if these areas are encroached upon again, bulldozers will return, and higher penalties will be imposed without prior notice. Sitamarhi also experienced a large-scale initiative to clear roads, with the Sitamarhi Municipal Corporation and Traffic Department deploying a team that included planners, sanitation officials, police officers, a JCB machine, tractors, and laborers. Illegal constructions between Gaushala Chowk and the Punaura Dham temple gate were dismantled, with goods worth lakhs confiscated from vendors on the second day of the operation.
During this process, fines totaling approximately Rs 9,500 were levied against those who had unlawfully occupied the roads. Similar activities were reported in Danapur and Bhagalpur. In Danapur, encroachments from Hathi Khana Mor to Saguna Mor were removed for the second consecutive day, with a fine of Rs 4,800 collected. In Bhagalpur, the Municipal Corporation operated in various areas, including Zeromile, Sandis Compound, Station Chowk, MP Dwivedi Road, and Nayabazar to Adampur, collecting fines of Rs 13,500 from violators. Officials in Bhagalpur, as in other cities, issued a final warning that anyone attempting to reclaim public land will face strict legal consequences.
Throughout Bihar, the administration is framing this campaign as a measure to ensure smooth traffic flow and reclaim public spaces for the citizens. However, the drive has also resulted in clashes, anxiety, and emotional reactions among those reliant on roadside shops and stalls for their livelihoods. As bulldozers continue to move from one city to another, the government has sent a clear message that encroachment on public land will no longer be accepted, and the operation will persist in the upcoming days.
