PHAGWARA: In a significant step towards restoring public spaces and easing traffic congestion, the Municipal Corporation Phagwara (MCP), in collaboration with the Traffic Police, has announced a citywide anti-encroachment campaign to target unauthorized structures and illegal vendors operating in the city.
The drive, jointly initiated by Municipal Commissioner Dr. Akshita Gupta and Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Traffic Upkar Singh, along with Traffic Incharge Aman Kumar Daveshwar, aims to systematically address the long-standing issue of encroachments that have disrupted pedestrian movement, impeded vehicular traffic, and posed serious safety concerns.
As part of the preparatory efforts, DSP Upkar Singh conducted a detailed inspection of several sensitive and heavily encroached areas across Phagwara. His visit marked the beginning of a coordinated plan to identify hotspots and strategize the removal of unauthorized structures from roadsides, marketplaces, and other public areas.
Despite several previous initiatives by the Municipal Corporation to tackle encroachments, such structures have frequently resurfaced, often due to inadequate follow-up or lack of community cooperation. This renewed campaign, however, promises a more comprehensive and sustained approach. According to officials, the emphasis this time will be on collaboration, enforcement, and community engagement to ensure lasting results.
Speaking to the media after a review of the traffic situation near the Phagwara Bus Stand—a known bottleneck in the city—DSP Singh highlighted the urgency of the campaign. “The congestion in certain areas has reached a critical level. After assessing the situation firsthand, we have decided to work closely with the Municipal Corporation to reclaim public spaces that have been illegally occupied, ” he said.
Responding to queries regarding potential political pressure or interference, DSP Singh clarified that the campaign would be conducted impartially and with transparency. “We intend to involve all stakeholders, including elected councillors—both winners and runners-up—as well as local shopkeeper and trader associations. Their cooperation is vital to the campaign’s success. This is not a political issue; it is a public interest initiative aimed at improving city infrastructure and quality of life, ” he added.
Municipal Commissioner Dr. Akshita Gupta echoed these sentiments, stating that the campaign would focus on long-term solutions rather than short-term cleanups. “We have learned from past experiences. This time, enforcement will be accompanied by regular monitoring, awareness drives, and support mechanisms for affected vendors to transition into legal spaces, wherever possible, ” she said.
The joint task force will begin operations in phases, targeting high-density commercial zones before expanding to residential areas. Officials have also indicated that legal notices and adequate warnings will be issued before any demolition or removal activity is undertaken, ensuring due process is followed.
The campaign has been welcomed by several civic groups and residents, who have long expressed concerns over blocked sidewalks, traffic snarls, and safety hazards caused by unauthorized encroachments.
With the combined efforts of the Municipal Corporation and the Traffic Police, authorities hope to set a precedent for urban management and civic discipline in Phagwara.