Crackdown on encroachments eases life for Pindiites

Rawalpindi : The local administration, in collaboration with the Metropolitan Corporation Rawalpindi (MCR), has successfully removed a significant number of encroachments from several areas, including Raja Bazaar, Bara Bazaar, Sadiqabad, Muslim Town, Commercial Market, and even along the main Murree Road. Residents of the city expressed to The News that while the local administration and MCR have initiated a crackdown against the encroachment mafia, which has dominated roads, streets, and footpaths

for years, the mafia tends to reappear once enforcement officials leave the area. Locals have suggested the establishment of permanent pickets and enhanced surveillance around bazaars to eliminate the encroachment mafia for good.

Additionally, citizens have advised the local administration that stringent monitoring could help combat the growing issue of encroachments. They recommend creating designated spaces for vendors to sell their goods, as well as establishing weekly bazaars to further deter illegal encroachments.

The News conducted a survey revealing that pedestrians and motorcyclists can now navigate easily through Bara Bazaar, Trunk Bazaar, Raja Bazaar, Sadiqabad, and Muslim Town, thanks to the presence of enforcement squads. However, this ease of movement is contingent upon the enforcement officials remaining present in the bazaars. The clearance of these areas has allowed ambulances and other vehicles to move freely.

Despite these efforts, some bazaars continue to face increasing encroachments, creating severe difficulties for the public and motorists. Jamia Masjid Road, Banni, Khayaban, Pirwdahi, Dhok Hassue, Dhok Ratta, and Asghar Mall Road are among the most affected areas where movement remains challenging.

Commissioner Rawalpindi Aamir Khattak initiated measures to clear the affected areas. The local administration has appointed an Assistant Commissioner (City) to tackle the encroachment mafia across the region. The Assistant Commissioner and MCR Chief Officer are actively working together to enforce these measures.

The encroachment mafia has notably occupied various areas of Rawalpindi, particularly along both sides of Murree Road from Waris Khan to Sixth Road, often resisting government efforts. The local administration has begun registering FIRs against encroachment offenders at various police stations.

MCR Chief Officer Imran Ali has stated that they are committed to eradicating illegal encroachments, having launched an anti-encroachment campaign across the city, with a particular focus on Murree Road, Double Road, Sadiqabad, Muslim Town, and Commercial Market areas. Ali has warned that the encroachment mafia will not be spared and has confirmed that shops and stalls occupying Murree Road for an extended period have been confiscated, resulting in the clearance of encroachments from both Murree Road and Double Road.