The Madras High Court has ordered a comprehensive survey of all encroachments in Chennai and their systematic removal. The court has also directed the traffic management wing of the Chennai police to procure additional towing vehicles and deploy them strategically for the immediate removal of illegally parked vehicles.
Court's Observations
A division bench comprising Justice S M Subramaniam and Justice K Surender observed that the actions taken by authorities against illegal parking are not only insufficient but also invisible in the public domain. The bench stated, "When the actions are invisible in the public domain, violators will commit offence repeatedly by causing obstructions to the road users and free flow of traffic in city and urban areas. Therefore, it is just and necessary that Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) and police department have to work in tandem, so as to ensure that road encroachments are removed systematically in a time-bound manner, and illegally parked vehicles are towed immediately."
Background of the Case
The court passed these orders on a plea filed by Saju Alex, a resident of Teynampet, who alleged repeated illegal parking by a bike mechanic in his area. Passing the interim orders, the bench observed that in cases of such repeat offences, police authorities are bound to register a criminal case against habitual encroachers.
Accountability of Authorities
The court further emphasized the need for CMDA and the police department to work in tandem to ensure systematic removal of road encroachments and immediate towing of illegally parked vehicles. "In the event of failure, competent authorities of corporation, CMDA and police authorities must be held responsible and accountable, and jurisdictional officials are answerable for all such obstructions caused to the public," the court said. These authorities are bound to ensure free flow of traffic and prevent illegal parking of vehicles on main roads by simultaneously removing encroachments on footpaths and roads.
