MC crackdown on street encroachments in Chamba

In an effort to address the growing issue of street encroachments, the Chamba police and the Municipal Council have launched a joint operation to remove illegal vendors and shops. The encroachments have obstructed pedestrian and vehicular movement, leading to public frustration and safety concerns.

The operation, led by Chamba Police Station in-charge Sanjeev Kumar and Municipal Council Executive Officer Dalip Kumar, involved inspections across the town. Officials identified numerous illegally placed stalls and shops and ordered vendors to dismantle their setups. Fines were issued to some violators, with a stern warning issued that repeat offenders would face stricter consequences. “Vendors have been warned against placing goods on the streets,” Kumar stated.

The clean-up drive specifically targeted the area from Delhi Gate to the new bus stand, a location that has seen a surge in encroachments. With vendors crowding both sides of the route, pedestrians have struggled to navigate the narrow roads, while traffic jams have become a daily challenge. The opening of the new bus stand in Tatwani exacerbated the problem, as the nearly 1 km stretch leading to it is now lined with stalls that make two-wheeler travel hazardous.

Despite the Municipal Council’s repeated efforts to curb the issue, vendors often return just days after each clean-up operation. Local residents are demanding stronger enforcement to prevent the recurrence of encroachments. “We need firm action from the administration so that streets remain safe and clear,” one resident commented.

Neelam Nayar, chairperson of the Municipal Corporation, affirmed the council’s commitment to maintaining order, stating that street vendors violating the law would face serious repercussions, including the confiscation of goods.