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Eviction Sparks Unrest in Tbilisi as Police Clear Protesters from Tvalchrelidze Street

A tense standoff erupted Thursday morning in Georgia’s capital as residents and protesters clashed with police over an ongoing eviction on Tvalchrelidze Street. At least three people were forcibly removed after attempting to block a moving truck from accessing a residential building marked for clearance.

Police Move In as Emotions Boil Over

It all began when a moving truck rolled up to the aging apartment block, triggering alarm among tenants and neighbors who rushed to prevent it from entering.

Despite police warnings to stand down, several people stood in the path of the vehicle. Officers responded swiftly, pulling three individuals aside and placing them in a patrol car. Eyewitnesses say the scene quickly turned chaotic, with shouting matches and some physical jostling.

One resident yelled, “We’ve lived here our whole lives—where are we supposed to go?”

Police have not confirmed whether the detained individuals were arrested or simply escorted away for questioning.

Deteriorated Buildings at the Heart of the Dispute

According to the National Bureau of Enforcement, the eviction was based on safety concerns. Officials cited a report from the Samkharauli Forensic Bureau that declared the structure dangerously unsound.

The agency stated that the buildings in question were in an advanced state of disrepair, posing a “clear risk to life and health.” The order to vacate, they added, was not sudden, and residents were previously warned.

Still, not everyone agrees.

tbilisi eviction protest police

Small clusters of protesters remained outside the building hours after the incident, demanding transparency and temporary housing options. Tensions lingered through the afternoon, with some residents openly sobbing while others argued with authorities.

One-sentence paragraph for human tone.

Many felt blindsided.

Clashes Signal Deeper Housing Crisis in Tbilisi

The eviction is the latest flashpoint in a broader debate over housing and urban renewal in Georgia’s fast-changing capital. Critics say government agencies are moving too aggressively to clear older buildings without adequate relocation plans.

Some advocacy groups have accused the city of prioritizing development over dignity.

Here are key complaints voiced by residents and activists:

  • Poor communication about eviction timelines

  • Insufficient compensation or relocation assistance

  • Lack of independent assessments on building safety

  • Alleged ties between redevelopment plans and private interests

Tvalchrelidze Street isn’t the only site where residents are fighting to stay put. Similar scenes have unfolded in other districts like Vake and Gldani, where high-value land is being eyed for future development projects.

Officials Defend Eviction, Cite Safety and Procedure

City officials insist the process followed legal guidelines and that all parties were informed in advance. The Enforcement Bureau maintains that their action was necessary to avoid tragedy in crumbling buildings.

“We understand the frustration,” a spokesperson said. “But delaying action when a building is structurally compromised puts everyone at risk.”

A technical report by the Samkharauli Forensic Bureau concluded that the walls of the building were at risk of collapse and that staying in the structure would be “reckless and unsafe.”

Still, the visuals from Thursday’s confrontation—of uniformed police dragging away tearful residents—have fueled public criticism.

What Happens Next for the Displaced?

The next steps remain murky.

Authorities have yet to clarify whether the affected families will be offered temporary housing or financial aid. Social service representatives were seen on-site, but few answers were given.

With property developers already expressing interest in the area, many fear that those pushed out today may be permanently priced out of their neighborhoods.

Table summarizing key facts from the Tvalchrelidze Street eviction:

Aspect Details
Date of Eviction July 24, 2025
Location Tvalchrelidze Street, Tbilisi
People Removed by Police At least 3
Official Reason Structural safety concerns
Assessment Provided By Samkharauli Forensic Bureau
Number of Residents Affected Not officially disclosed
City’s Offer of Assistance Not yet confirmed

As of late Thursday, police remained stationed at the site, and more protests are expected in the coming days. Residents have vowed not to give up their homes without a fight—even if the buildings are coming apart at the seams.

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