Major Crackdown on Illegal Encroachments in Mohali
The Mohali Municipal Corporation (MC) executed a significant anti-encroachment operation on Wednesday, targeting unauthorized roadside vendors, hawkers, and dhabas across several key phases of the city. This extensive drive resulted in action being taken at 24 different locations, with officials seizing a large quantity of goods and equipment used by the encroachers.
Widespread Operation and Confiscated Items
Accompanied by large trucks for transportation, the corporation teams conducted raids in Phase 1, Phase 3A, 3B1, and Phase 6. The operation was comprehensive, leading to the confiscation of numerous items essential to the illegal setups. The seized goods included:
- Carts and tables
- Gas cylinders and stoves
- Boxes and tandoors
- Various other materials used by the vendors
In a specific action within Phase 3A, the team also targeted unauthorized structures constructed behind showrooms. Furthermore, several showroom owners were fined for placing generators and water tanks on public roads, with four official challans being issued for these encroachments.
Official Warnings and Public Inconvenience
Municipal Corporation officials clarified that the crackdown was necessary due to the severe traffic congestion and public inconvenience caused by these encroachments on roads and footpaths. They stated that despite repeated warnings, many vendors had persistently returned to occupy public spaces illegally.
According to municipal rules, vendors are only permitted to sell goods while moving and are not allowed to occupy fixed locations. However, officials found that many previously removed vendors had set up permanent stalls again, using boards, coverings, and even spreading sacks on the ground to sell vegetables at the very same spots.
Issuing a stern warning, the municipal officers declared that if these illegal activities persist, the next phase of action would be more severe. Not only will carts and equipment be confiscated, but also the vegetables and fruits being sold.
Public Response and Future Action
The drive, led by Mandeep Singh, was carried out under the directives of the Municipal Commissioner. Singh confirmed that a large number of items, including goods from flower vendors, were seized primarily from Phases 1 and 3A.
He emphasized a zero-tolerance policy going forward, stating, "If anyone is found reoccupying public land again, their entire stock will be confiscated." Meanwhile, local residents have welcomed the civic body's move, urging the authorities to find a permanent solution to the recurring problem to ensure smooth movement for pedestrians and vehicles alike.
