Clean drive against encroachments
A dispute over encroachments has intensified in Amritsar’s Chheharta Main Market after a shopkeeper allegedly misbehaved with a Municipal Corporation team during an anti-encroachment drive. The civic body subsequently approached the police, following which action was initiated in the matter.
The joint drive by the Municipal Corporation and traffic police is aimed at clearing roads and footpaths of illegal encroachments and improving traffic movement in the busy market.
Traffic Disruptions Trigger Action
Chheharta Main Market is an important route connecting several villages and also witnesses significant movement of devotees visiting the historic gurdwara. However, complaints have been raised over shopkeepers placing goods outside their establishments on roads and footpaths.
With the market road already narrow, encroachments, along with parked vehicles, often create bottlenecks and contribute to traffic congestion.
Shopkeepers Warned Against Blocking Roads
During the drive, officials instructed shopkeepers to keep their merchandise within the designated limits of their shops. The administration has now warned that repeated violations will not be overlooked.
Instead of repeatedly removing goods from the streets, authorities said photographs of shops violating the rules will be taken and further action initiated as per law.
ADCP Issues Strict Warning
ADCP Amandeep Kaur said clearing roads and footpaths is a joint effort of the police and Municipal Corporation. She stressed that police personnel provide security and assistance to civic teams during anti-encroachment operations.
She also issued a strong warning that any attempt to obstruct government officials in the discharge of their duties or misbehave with them could invite legal action.
Drive To Continue
Authorities have appealed to shopkeepers not to use public roads and footpaths for displaying or storing commercial goods. Officials said anyone with objections regarding the drive can approach the concerned authorities, but obstruction or misconduct during government duty will not be tolerated.
The anti-encroachment campaign in Chheharta Main Market is expected to continue as police and civic officials work to ease traffic congestion and restore public access to roads and footpaths.