Encroachments in Putlighar causing frequent traffic snarls

Commuters and residents in the Putlighar area are grappling with frequent traffic snarls, largely due to rampant roadside encroachments. Illegal vends, display of goods on pavements and unregulated roadside parking have turned the market into a congestion hot spot.

Vendors have set up temporary stalls on sidewalks and even extended them onto the roads, forcing pedestrians to walk on the carriageway, leaving little room for vehicles to pass. The problem is further aggravated by two-wheelers and cars parked indiscriminately along the roadside, causing long traffic jams, especially during peak hours.

“The roads have practically shrunk. What used to be a two-minute drive now takes over 20 minutes. The congestion is not just frustrating, it is dangerous,” said Harjit Kaur, a schoolteacher who commutes through Putlighar every day.

Residents allege that the lack of enforcement by municipal and traffic authorities has emboldened vendors and shopkeepers to encroach further. “Officials come, clear the area once in a while and leave. Within a day or two, everything is back the way it was,” said Rajesh Mehta, a local resident.

Some shopkeepers, however, argue that they have limited space and are trying to make ends meet.

“We do not want to block the roads. But if the authorities provide us with a proper market area, we would move there. Moreover, it is happening in all areas and why blame us only,” said a vendor who runs a garment stall.

With the historic Gurdwara Pipli Sahib located on this stretch, the traffic chaos here is at its peak on Sundays and other religiously significant days. With no parking available near the religious place, the road outside becomes really chaotic.

Residents of the area said that until strict and consistent action is taken, the people of Putlighar would continue to face daily gridlocks. They stated that shopkeepers and vendors must be sensitised as frequent traffic jams are affecting them too.