Mumbai witnessed one of its biggest anti-encroachment operations as Western Railway launched a large-scale demolition drive at Garib Nagar near Bandra station to reclaim railway land worth nearly Rs 600 crore. Authorities said around 500 hutments had come up dangerously close to railway tracks, overhead electric lines, and critical railway infrastructure. The demolition follows years of legal battles, with the Bombay High Court permitting the clearance operation earlier this year.Heavy police deployment and road barricading around Bandra station led to severe traffic congestion and commuter disruptions. Tensions escalated on the second day when officials moved to remove an allegedly illegal prayer structure near the Bandra East skywalk, triggering protests and violence. Police said protesters hurled stones and other objects at officials, prompting a lathicharge. At least seven policemen and six protesters were injured, while 10 people were detained. An FIR has been registered over the clashes. Western Railway says the reclaimed land is crucial for future railway expansion and infrastructure upgrades around Bandra station. However, the eviction drive has sparked anger and uncertainty among hundreds of affected families, especially with Eid approaching.