Rawalpindi Announces Strict Action Against Roadside Encroachments

The Punjab government has directed the district administration to remove all encroachments from roads and bazaars in the city, replicating the successful clearance operations conducted in Bara Bazaar and Raja Bazaar.

Assistant Commissioner Hakim Khan, speaking to Dawn, urged traders to support the administration by ensuring footpaths are free from stallholders. He emphasized that removing encroachments is the civic body’s responsibility and called for notices to be issued to shopkeepers with encroachments, granting them three days to comply.

To expedite the process, the Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation has established a dedicated counter for map approvals, ensuring efficient implementation.

Commending the district administration staff for their efforts in the anti-encroachment drive, Mr. Khan announced plans to distribute shields to recognize their performance. He also stressed strict action against shopkeepers who provide electricity connections to encroaching stallholders, proposing fines, FIRs, and license cancellations for violators.

Highlighting encroachment as Rawalpindi’s most pressing issue, Mr. Khan stated that it adversely impacts all aspects of life. Practical steps are underway to tackle the problem, including transforming Murree Road into a model road where no illegal stalls will be permitted. Shop owners allowing stalls or carts to occupy space in front of their establishments will face legal action.

On Saturday, the assistant commissioner made an unannounced visit to city bazaars, including Raja Bazaar and Commercial Market, to review the progress of the anti-encroachment drive. He also engaged with visitors to gather feedback on the ongoing operation.