Vadodara, February 2, 2026 – In the bustling suburb of Saiyad Vasna, a simmering conflict has erupted into outright rage as residents of Marutidham Society confront what they describe as rampant illegal constructions along Saiyad Vasna Road. These unauthorized buildings, erected without proper map approvals, society consents, or adherence to zoning laws, have not only disrupted the community’s harmony but also encroached on public spaces, including a local park that residents claim has been partially overtaken. The Vadodara Municipal Corporation’s (VMC) Town Planning Department, tasked with enforcing building regulations, now faces sharp criticism for its perceived inaction, leaving locals questioning: What is the department doing to curb this urban menace?
The Spark of Discontent
Marutidham Society, a residential enclave known for its organized layout and community spirit, has become the epicenter of this controversy. Residents report that several structures—ranging from makeshift extensions to full-fledged commercial setups—have sprung up overnight along the adjacent Saiyad Vasna Road. These constructions allegedly bypass essential approvals, including building maps from the VMC and nods from the society itself, which is required for any developments impacting shared boundaries or amenities.
One resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, vented frustration: “We’ve seen walls raised higher than norms, blocking sunlight and airflow to our homes. And the encroachment on the park? That’s our community’s green lung being choked for someone’s private gain.” The “peak” encroachment, as locals term it—likely referring to prime public land or a park area—has particularly incensed families who rely on these spaces for recreation and daily walks. Without official sanctions, these builds violate Gujarat’s urban development guidelines, potentially leading to structural hazards, traffic congestion, and environmental degradation.
This issue echoes broader complaints across Vadodara, where illegal constructions have plagued neighborhoods. For instance, similar grievances have surfaced in nearby areas like Vasna-Bhayli Road, where reports of land grabbing in societies such as Rameshwar Park highlight official negligence. In Bapod, residents of Maruti Flats—a complex bearing resemblance to Marutidham in name and structure—lodged complaints years ago about unauthorized boundary wall extensions by neighboring Dwarkanagri Society, citing violations of VMC bylaws that affected air circulation and property rights. Despite repeated appeals, action was delayed, with residents even threatening election boycotts to force intervention.
Encroachment and Approval Lapses: A Recipe for Chaos
At the heart of the outrage is the blatant disregard for regulatory processes. Under VMC’s Town Development Department, any construction requires a sanctioned building plan, including site inspections, environmental clearances, and compliance with the Gujarat Town Planning and Urban Development Act. Flowcharts and guidelines for permissions are publicly available, yet enforcement appears lax in Saiyad Vasna. Residents allege that builders exploit loopholes, starting work without maps approved by the department or consents from affected societies, leading to encroachments on public assets like parks.
“Encroachment on the park isn’t just illegal; it’s theft from the community,” said a Marutidham Society committee member. “We’ve submitted complaints, but months pass with no site visits or notices. Meanwhile, these structures grow bolder.” This sentiment aligns with citywide patterns, where VMC has demolished illegal extensions in areas like Tandalja and Gotri, removing unauthorized shades, walls, and platforms after resident complaints. In Makarpura, 53 structures obstructing stormwater drains were razed to prevent monsoon flooding, demonstrating the department’s capability when mobilized.
However, critics argue that such actions are reactive and selective, often prioritizing high-profile zones over residential suburbs like Saiyad Vasna. Recent drives in Madar Mohalla and Atladara saw dozens of illegal residential and commercial structures demolished under tight security, following notices to vacate. Even in Chhani village, VMC undertook targeted demolitions, underscoring a method for removal that includes notices, heavy machinery like bulldozers, and police support.
What is the VMC Town Planning Department Doing?
The question on every Marutidham resident’s mind is straightforward: Why the delay in Saiyad Vasna? VMC’s Town Planning Department outlines clear methods for addressing illegal constructions, including impact assessments, notices, and demolition protocols. Yet, in practice, enforcement varies. Officials cite resource constraints and the sheer volume of complaints—over 45 illegal shops and houses were razed in one Atladara drive alone—but residents see it as bureaucratic inertia or favoritism.
In response to queries, a VMC spokesperson stated that investigations are ongoing in Vasna areas, with anti-encroachment teams actively monitoring. “We follow due process: notices are issued, and demolitions occur if violations persist,” they said. However, this hasn’t quelled the anger. Broader city efforts, like clearing roadside encroachments in Patthargate and monsoon preparations, show proactive steps, but locals demand specificity for their road.
Calls for Accountability and Reform
As rage builds, Marutidham Society has organized protests and petitions, urging swift demolitions and stricter oversight. “If VMC can act in Madar Mohalla or Gandhinagar after incidents, why not here?” asked one protester, referencing statewide drives targeting hundreds of illegal buildings. Experts suggest digital tracking of approvals and community involvement could prevent such escalations.
For now, Saiyad Vasna Road stands as a symbol of unchecked urban sprawl, with Marutidham residents vowing to escalate if VMC doesn’t step up. As Vadodara grows, the balance between development and regulation hangs in the balance—will the Town Planning Department rise to the challenge, or will rage turn to deeper disillusionment?