Ahead of Navratri fair, Panchkula MC launches anti-encroachment drive

In preparation for the forthcoming Navratri fair, Municipal Commissioner RK Singh has directed officials to take strict action against encroachments in the vicinity of the Mata Mansa Devi shrine.

Singh chaired a high-level meeting with municipal staff, emphasising the need to maintain the sanctity of the pilgrimage site and ensure a safe environment for devotees. He underlined that cleanliness and order in and around the temple complex must be treated as a priority.

Following the meeting, the Commissioner inspected the Mansa Devi area, instructing workers to carry out extensive cleaning, trim overgrown bushes, and remove all visible dirt. He also ordered the identification and removal of unauthorised constructions and temporary structures in line with regulations.

Calling for coordination between departments, Singh made it clear that the process should be carried out with both efficiency and sensitivity to the convenience of devotees. He stressed that religious sites such as Mata Mansa Devi were integral to Panchkula’s identity and must remain free of encroachments.

Joint Commissioner Gaurav Chauhan, DMC Vinod Nehra, and senior engineers were also present at the meeting. Officials assured that an effective strategy would be implemented promptly to restore order and cleanliness in the area.

In a related development, the Municipal Corporation and Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (HSIIDC) responded to persistent complaints from residents by repairing potholes on roads in Sector 14 and Industrial Area Phase 1 respectively. The move has brought relief to commuters who had been facing difficulties for several weeks. Officials said regular monitoring would continue to prevent further deterioration.