Rampant encroachments in Gurugram prompt inspections, awareness drives by civic bodies

In response to multiple complaints from local residents regarding rampant encroachment, the Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) and the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) conducted inspections and awareness drives on MG Road-Saraswati Vihar, Saraswati Vihar Market and Khandsa Road. The aim was to raise awareness about the impact of encroachments and encourage compliance with public space regulations.

“We will first interact with the public to make them aware of the issues caused by encroachments and the importance of clearing public spaces. If compliance is not achieved, strict action will be taken against offenders,” said RS Batth, District Town Planner of GMDA, on Thursday.

During the past two days, GMDA and MCG officers spent three hours inspecting each location. It was observed that corridor spaces in Saraswati Vihar were fully encroached upon, with many shopkeepers extending their storefronts to restrict parking. Additionally, some residential properties were being used as commercial establishments, including restaurants and eateries, causing entire lanes to be blocked by illegal rehris.

On Khandsa Road, public spaces were similarly encroached upon by shopkeepers, and the presence of rehris worsened congestion on the main road. Officers also found that some shopkeepers were charging separate morning and evening fees from rehri operators and supplying electricity to certain stalls.

Illegal fish and meat markets were also operational, and even licensed vendors were occupying extended spaces on the road. Strict warnings were issued to all violators, according to the DTP.

Local residents and shopkeepers raised concerns about Khandsa Mandi, where multiple entry points were causing morning traffic jams that delayed school buses and disrupted evening traffic. The DTP of GMDA assured residents that the matter would be taken up with the authorities concerned to designate entry and exit points for the mandi.

The GMDA team also led an anti-encroachment drive from Badshahpur Chowk to Sector 67 T-point on Sohna Road, which was heavily encroached upon by rehris, khokhas and the Banjara market. The enforcement team demolished the encroachments, clearing the chowk entirely. Shopkeepers were directed to support the smooth flow of traffic by keeping public spaces free of obstructions.

“The GMDA, in coordination with the police department and MCG, is actively working to remove encroachments in the city. Our first step is to inform and engage with the public through personal visits, encouraging them to clear encroachments on government land and public spaces. If encroachments remain, we will take strict action,” Batth added.