In a major pre-visit clean-up drive, the Secunderabad Cantonment Board (SCB) carried out demolition of long-standing illegal structures in front of Jubilee Bus Station (JBS), Secunderabad, during the early hours of Wednesday. The move comes ahead of Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s scheduled visit on September 17, with officials emphasizing that the demolitions were part of both security measures and efforts to reclaim encroached defence land. The operation was conducted under tight supervision, with police and cantonment personnel ensuring there was no resistance from business owners operating on disputed plots.

Officials revealed that several commercial establishments, including small hotels, eateries, and shops, had been functioning illegally on Class C cantonment land for over two decades. Apart from occupying government property, encroachers had also built iron sheds across the nala (drainage line), obstructing public pathways and raising environmental concerns. Despite repeated notices issued by SCB, the establishments continued operations without authorization. Sources confirmed that Wednesday’s demolition was part of a broader effort to enforce compliance and restore order around one of the busiest transit hubs in the twin cities.

The Cantonment Board further clarified that the demolitions were not only about removing encroachments but also about ensuring foolproof security during the Defence Minister’s visit. With heightened vigilance in the area, officials are determined to prevent any potential security risks that could arise from unauthorized structures and congested entry points. While some locals expressed disappointment over the loss of livelihoods, authorities maintained that the action was long overdue and necessary to uphold the law. The SCB has hinted at continuing similar drives in other parts of the cantonment where encroachments remain unchecked.