Encroachments galore

Chandigarh, October 8

Though the MC had not given permission to shopkeepers for putting up stalls in markets or occupying corridors, massive encroachment was witnessed in city markets on Dasehra today.

Several shopkeepers were spotted placing their goods at corridors of the Sector 19 and 22 markets. A large number of unauthorised stalls were also put up. 

The MC had sought legal opinion from the UT senior standing counsel to know whether the corporation can allow stalls for nominal government fee for the festive season. However, they have not received a reply yet.

However, this did not stop shopkeepers and vendors from encroaching markets and corridors. In the evening, it was even difficult to step into some of the markets. From corridors, parking lots to footpaths, every open space was dotted with goods. 

“The crowd in markets was enormous and encroachments made it even difficult for visitors to shop,” said Rajesh Handa, a visitor at the Sector 19 market. — TNS