Sirsa Civic Body Initiates Comprehensive Anti-Encroachment Campaign
The Sirsa Municipal Council has launched a significant anti-encroachment operation, targeting illegal structures across the city to improve traffic flow and public safety. This drive, which began on Wednesday, is part of a broader initiative to address long-standing issues caused by unauthorized encroachments on public roads and spaces.
Barnala Road Operation: A Focus on Traffic Ease
On Barnala Road, the municipal team conducted a nearly two-hour operation, removing illegal hoardings, banners, kiosks, and other materials that were obstructing the roadway. The seized goods were transported using two tractor-trolleys. This marked the first extended anti-encroachment action in this area, highlighting the civic body's renewed commitment to urban management.
During the drive, some shopkeepers protested, but officials cautioned them that obstructing official work is a punishable offence and could lead to police action if they fail to cooperate. The authorities issued strict instructions to shopkeepers, emphasizing that placing goods or structures on roads in the future will not be tolerated, as such encroachments contribute to parking problems, traffic jams, and increased accident risks.
City-Wide Campaign and Additional Actions
The operation on Barnala Road is just one component of a larger city-wide campaign. Similar drives have been carried out on Begu Road and in other market areas. Previously, encroachments were cleared from the auto market to create additional parking spaces.
In a separate operation, another municipal team demolished 15 to 20 illegal huts constructed on government land at the Mela Ground. Officials noted that residents had been served multiple notices, but due to non-compliance, the demolition was executed under the supervision of Junior Engineer Rohit Hooda. Further action is planned after the area is properly marked.
Ongoing Challenges and Future Plans
Despite these efforts, traffic and encroachment issues persist in several key areas of Sirsa, including:
- Dabwali Road (from Arorvansh Chowk to the Air Force Station)
- Parshuram Chowk to Ambedkar Chowk
- Rania Road
- Hisar Road (from bus stand to Maharana Pratap Chowk)
- Geeta Bhawan Street
MC Chief Sanitary Inspector Jaiveer Singh affirmed that the anti-encroachment drive will continue across the city with no leniency shown. The civic body aims to systematically address all reported encroachments to enhance urban livability and safety.
