Islamabad, Dec 30: The Punjab government has directed the district administration to clear all encroachments from roads and bazaars in the city, following the success of similar operations in Bara Bazaar and Raja Bazaar.
Assistant Commissioner Hakim Khan, speaking to Dawn, urged local traders to support the initiative by ensuring that footpaths remain free from illegal stalls. He emphasized that it is the civic body’s responsibility to remove encroachments and announced that notices would be issued to shopkeepers involved in encroachments, giving them a three-day deadline to comply.
To speed up the process, the Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation has set up a dedicated counter for map approvals, ensuring that the anti-encroachment efforts are implemented effectively. Mr. Khan praised the district administration staff for their role in the anti-encroachment drive, stating that shields would be distributed to recognize their hard work. He also warned that strict action would be taken against shopkeepers who provide electricity connections to illegal stallholders, including fines, FIRs, and the cancellation of licenses.
Describing encroachment as Rawalpindi’s most pressing issue, Mr. Khan stressed its negative impact on the city’s infrastructure and daily life. He revealed that practical steps are being taken to tackle the issue, including plans to turn Murree Road into a model road, free of illegal stalls. Shopkeepers who allow encroachments in front of their establishments will face legal consequences.
Over the weekend, Mr. Khan conducted an unannounced visit to key city bazaars, including Raja Bazaar and Commercial Market, to assess the progress of the operation. During the visit, he interacted with visitors to collect feedback on the ongoing drive.
