Relocation – Concerns Grow Over Delhi Slum Clearance Near Polo Ground
Relocation – More than 700 families residing in the BR Camp settlement near Jaipur Polo Ground and the Race Course area in central Delhi have raised serious concerns over an ongoing demolition and relocation process. Residents fear that moving away from the area could disrupt their employment opportunities and create financial hardships for hundreds of households.
Residents Voice Concerns Over Eviction Process
According to people living in the settlement, officials have recently marked several structures and initiated activities linked to the demolition drive. The action is being carried out in accordance with directions issued by the Delhi High Court. Residents said the clearance operation follows a court order passed earlier this year, leading to uncertainty among families who have lived in the area for decades.
Many inhabitants stated that they depend on jobs located close to the settlement and worry that relocation will make daily commuting difficult and expensive. A large number of workers are employed in informal and blue-collar occupations across nearby neighborhoods, including administrative, diplomatic, and government zones in the heart of the national capital.
Distance to New Location Raises Livelihood Fears
The proposed rehabilitation site at Savda Ghevra is situated nearly 45 kilometers from the current settlement. Residents argue that such a significant distance could separate them from their established workplaces and reduce their ability to earn a stable income.
Several families said they rely on short travel times to reach their jobs and support their households. They believe that shifting to a faraway location may increase transportation costs and affect regular employment, particularly for daily-wage workers and those engaged in informal sector activities.
Demolition Activity Creates Anxiety Among Families
The start of demolition-related operations has reportedly created an atmosphere of concern throughout the settlement. Many households have begun removing personal belongings and dismantling parts of their homes in anticipation of possible eviction.
Residents were seen taking down doors, windows, metal sheets, and other reusable materials to prevent losses before demolition takes place. Families say they are uncertain about the timeline of the process and are trying to prepare for any immediate action by authorities.
Long-Term Residents Seek Relief
Several people living in BR Camp described the settlement as a long-established community where multiple generations of families have grown up. Some residents claim their families have remained in the area for decades and view the relocation process as a major disruption to their lives.
One resident said that many households have deep roots in the locality and are struggling to come to terms with the prospect of leaving. Locals also alleged that inspections of houses have been taking place before demolition activities are carried out.
Some Families Relocated, Others Await Developments
Residents estimate that around 300 families have already shifted to Savda Ghevra under the rehabilitation plan. However, many others continue to stay in the settlement while exploring available legal options and awaiting further clarity regarding the eviction process.
As the relocation exercise continues, affected families remain concerned about housing, employment access, and the long-term impact of moving away from one of Delhi’s most prominent administrative districts. The situation highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing urban development projects with rehabilitation and livelihood concerns for vulnerable communities.