PIMPRI: In a major anti-encroachment drive, the Railways administration on Saturday removed many huts near Pimpri station to increase the length of the platform.

The police had to resort to a mild lathi charge to disperse the mob that turned violent during the anti-encroachment drive.

The Railways earlier issued notices to 65 residents to remove their huts located adjacent to the railway tracks. 

After the Diwali festival, reminders were issued twice.

The Railways administration had also called the affected residents to the Railways’ estate office to inform them about the drive to demolish the huts.

The Railways plan to increase the length of the two platforms at Pimpri station. The removal of the unauthorised huts was required for this purpose, Railways officials said.

Three excavators were used during the anti-encroachment drive.