In a decisive move, the Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC) launched a major anti-encroachment drive on Wednesday, targeting unauthorised makeshift structures that had choked a key city artery. The action on Station Road came a day after a prominent newspaper highlighted the persistent problem of illegal occupation causing severe traffic congestion.
Swift Action Follows Public Exposure
The enforcement team of the civic body, acting on the directives of RMC administrator Sushant Gaurav, carried out a special operation to clear the area. The drive focused on the stretch from Ranchi Railway Station to Patel Chowk, a section notorious for daily traffic snarls due to rampant encroachments.
Officials stated that the team removed illegal carts, kiosks, and shops that were built over roadside drains. They also seized temporary structures, bamboo poles, and other materials used for encroachment on both sides of the road. The RMC issued a stern warning to the encroachers, directing them not to reclaim the public space. The administration made it clear that failure to comply would result in punitive action.
Residents Welcome Drive But Seek Lasting Solution
While the demolition drive was welcomed, local residents expressed skepticism about its long-term effectiveness. Saket Singh, a resident of the railway colony, pointed out that similar drives have been conducted in the past with only temporary results. "Squatters return a few days later," he said, urging the RMC to ensure continuous monitoring of cleared areas to prevent re-occupation.
Singh also raised safety concerns, noting that roadside stalls, particularly those selling tea and betel nuts, not only intrude into public space but also become gathering points for anti-social elements, especially after dark.
Echoing the need for comprehensive action, commuter Sudhir Jaiswal highlighted additional hazards. He appealed to the corporation to cover open drains along the road to prevent accidents and injuries to pedestrians. Jaiswal also identified unauthorised stops of e-rickshaws and auto-rickshaws as another major factor blocking the smooth flow of traffic.
RMC Vows to Continue the Clean-up
RMC administrator Sushant Gaurav reiterated the civic body's commitment to ensuring orderly public spaces. "We appeal to citizens and shopkeepers not to encroach on roads, footpaths, drains, and public places," he stated. Gaurav assured that the anti-encroachment drive will continue to mitigate public inconvenience and ensure smooth traffic movement across the city.
The Wednesday operation underscores the ongoing challenge urban local bodies face in balancing informal street economies with the need for accessible and safe public infrastructure. The effectiveness of this drive will be measured by the RMC's ability to maintain the cleared spaces in the weeks to come.
