Major Crackdown on Roadside Encroachments in Mohali
The Mohali Municipal Corporation launched a significant anti-encroachment operation for the second consecutive day, targeting illegal street vendors and roadside establishments across multiple key sectors. The drive, conducted on Wednesday, resulted in the removal of over 23 street carts and dhabas that had been obstructing public roads and causing traffic issues.
Operation Details and Areas Covered
Led by Superintendent Mandeep Singh, the anti-encroachment team comprising more than 25 officials carried out the extensive operation across Phase 9, Phase 10, Phase 11, Sector 66, and Airport Road. During the crackdown, illegal structures were dismantled and their goods were seized before being loaded onto Municipal Corporation trucks for removal.
The issue of illegal encroachments on city roads, particularly in Phase 10 and Phase 11, has been a persistent problem for Mohali residents. These unauthorized occupations have frequently led to traffic congestion and inconvenience for daily commuters, prompting complaints from local citizens and council members alike.
Political Backing and Future Plans
The recent anti-encroachment initiative gained momentum after being raised during a House meeting where councillors demanded strict action against unauthorized road occupations. Municipal councillor Anuradha Anand commented on the operation, stating, "The ongoing anti-encroachment drive by the corporation is a commendable step toward maintaining city order. Such actions must continue to ensure relief and convenience for residents."
Interestingly, while the MC offers self-employment loans to street vendors under various government schemes, officials noted that some beneficiaries have been misusing these facilities by establishing permanent encroachments that cause public obstruction. This has complicated the balance between supporting small entrepreneurs and maintaining civic discipline.
The Municipal Corporation has indicated that such drives will continue in the coming days as part of their broader strategy to ensure smooth traffic movement and restore order to Mohali's public spaces. Residents have welcomed the initiative, hoping it will bring lasting solutions to the chronic traffic problems caused by unauthorized roadside establishments.
