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Encroachments turn eyesore
The increasing number of high-rises in Gurgaon are symbolic of the city's growth. But the menace of encroachments on pavements has started plaguing the city.
The increasing number of high-rises in Gurgaon are symbolic of the city's growth. But the menace of encroachments on pavements has started plaguing the city.
Despite several anti-encroachment drives being carried out by the authorities, encroachments are on the rise in posh localities with each passing day.
To keep a tab over the situation, the Haryana Urban Development Authority (Huda) has started issuing notices to the offenders.
Not complying with the orders could invite an imprisonment for a month or fine of Rs. 1,000.
"We've recently removed encroachments from footpaths on Sohna Road," said Huda administrator Parveen Kumar.
"We are trying our best to remove these illegal structures. We have taken action against the offenders. In some instances, people who were evicted have returned. We will evict them again," said the Huda administrator.
"We keep conducting drives to remove illegal encroachments from pavements on MG Road, Iffco Chowk, Galleria etc. An intensive drive is being carried out on the 7-km stretch between Rajiv Chowk and Badshapur crossing on Sohna Road," said Bharti Arora, DCP (traffic).
Several roadside areas have been encroached upon by taxi stands, vendors selling pottery and tea stall owners.
Due to the menace, service lanes and green belts along side major roads face frequent traffic jams. The streets leading to busy markets such as Galleria in DLF City and Sushant Lok and nearby areas are the worst affected.
"Vendors have occupied pavements on Sohna Road and from Subhash Chowk to Badshahpur," said Raman Sharma, a resident of Malibu Towne.
"The action plan has been prepared and the drive will be carried out in other parts of the city," said Sameer Jain, RWA member of Orchid Petals.
