Anti-encroachment drive targets politicians misusing public spaces
With civic elections approaching, the newly formed Anti-Encroachment Enforcement Bureau has issued a warning against the misuse of public spaces by local politicians. Responding to a surge in complaints, particularly from Sectors 14, 15, and 17, the Bureau has pledged to demolish illegal structures and penalise offenders. Nodal Officer RS Batth emphasised that political encroachments, such as unauthorised parking and illegal structures within residential premises, will not be tolerated.
“Local parks and roads are being misused by politicians as waiting areas, with tents erected or functions held. Many have encroached on roads, violating building bylaws to create illegal structures,” Batth stated. He added that the Bureau has received numerous complaints from builder colonies and Haryana Shahari Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP) sectors.
Former BJP leader Naveen Goyal has emerged as a key violator, allegedly encroaching on a Sector 17-A road to create illegal parking. “We are in the process of issuing him a notice,” Batth confirmed.
The Enforcement Bureau, known for its recent campaigns to reclaim long-encroached areas, will now shift focus to residential HSVP sectors. Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) have also raised concerns about the lack of enforcement in these areas, leading to widespread illegal commercialisation and encroachments.
“We are working on making encroached markets like those in Sectors 14 and 31 encroachment-free. Surveys are underway to identify key offenders in residential areas, and strict action will follow,” Batth assured.
