MP: Traffic-hindering temples removed

Jabalpur, July 2: In a major operation to beautify the 'cantonment town' and remove structures hindering smooth traffic flow, the district authorities have removed 168 places of worship in a major anti-encroachment drive and plan to shift another 198 by next year end.

In a deft handling of the sensitive issue to avoid any communal flare-up, the authorities took leaders of different communities, political parties, religious organisations and other people's committees into confidence before launching the anti-encroachment drive, District Collector Sanjay Dube said.

Boundary walls of many temples, mosques, gurudwaras and churches were removed during the drive, while few idols were shifted to other temples during the past 16 months, Mr Dube said, adding many idols were immersed in sacred river Narmada to honour the sentiments of people.

He said the remaining religious places causing traffic hindrance will be removed within one and half year.

''This endeavour will help in widening the city roads and smoothening the traffic which has been thrown out of gear earlier'', Mr Dube added.

UNI