The Chandigarh Municipal Corporation launched a significant enforcement drive on Wednesday, targeting illegal commercial encroachments across the city. The civic body's team issued a total of 124 challans to shopkeepers and vendors for unlawfully occupying public space.
Widespread Drive Across Key Commercial Hubs
The anti-encroachment operation was not confined to one area but was conducted extensively. Officials focused their efforts on several prominent markets and sectors where the problem of vendors and shops spilling onto footpaths and roads is persistent. The drive specifically covered areas including the Sector 41 market, Sector 42, and the Industrial Area. These locations are known for high footfall, where encroachments often lead to pedestrian inconvenience and traffic congestion.
Enforcement Strategy and Legal Basis
The action was carried out by a dedicated team from the Municipal Corporation's enforcement wing. The officials penalised the offenders under the relevant provisions of the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation Act. The Act grants the MC the authority to regulate and remove any unauthorized occupation of public land meant for footpaths, roads, and other civic amenities.
Each challan represents a legal notice and a fine imposed on the business for violating civic norms. The drive was part of a routine enforcement exercise aimed at ensuring that public spaces remain free for pedestrian movement and maintaining the city's planned aesthetic, a hallmark of Chandigarh.
Civic Body's Stance on Urban Management
This large-scale issuance of challans sends a clear message about the corporation's intent to strictly enforce urban planning rules. Encroachments by shopkeepers, who often display goods or set up temporary structures beyond their shop boundaries, have been a long-standing issue for city administrators. Such practices not only violate laws but also pose safety hazards and disrupt the smooth flow of traffic.
The Municipal Corporation has indicated that such drives will continue to be a regular feature. The objective is to foster a culture of compliance among the trading community and ensure that the city's markets function in a clean, organized, and lawful manner. The action underscores the civic body's commitment to reclaiming public spaces for the common good of all residents.
While the drive was focused on penalizing violations, it also serves as a reminder to all commercial establishments to conduct their business within the legally allotted space. The corporation has often cited the need for cooperation from citizens and traders alike to maintain Chandigarh's status as one of India's best-planned cities.
