Explainer: Why has anti-encroachment drive become essential in Rohtak

THE recent anti-encroachment drive carried out by the local Municipal Corporation (MC) authorities in several key markets of the city has caused concern among shopkeepers in other areas that are also heavily encroached upon. The campaign marked the first major action by the MC authorities following Diwali. According to officials, shopkeepers were repeatedly urged to remove encroachments from roads and public spaces, but their continued non-compliance left the corporation with no option but to conduct the anti-encroachment campaign.

Why is the drive essential in Rohtak city?

The municipal corporation’s anti-encroachment drive has become essential as most city markets in Rohtak city face severe congestion and frequent traffic snarls due to encroachments, particularly during rush hours. Narrow lanes in busy markets leave little room for fire engines or ambulances to pass during emergencies, posing a serious safety risk. The problem worsens during the festival season, when temporary stalls and extensions outside shops further block public pathways and roads. To restore public spaces and ensure smooth traffic movement, the MC authorities have initiated the drive to remove such encroachments.

What is the current status of encroachments in the main markets?

Encroachments is rampant in key markets such as Railway Road, Jhajjar Road, Qila Road, Model Town, Old bus stand road and many other markets. Many shopkeepers have extended their displays onto footpaths and roads, using racks, tables, banners, and tents, which restrict pedestrian movement and reduce road space. The shopkeepers acknowledge that the encroachments have become a common practice. “Everyone needs some space outside their shop to display goods, but I admit that many have encroached excessively, which is wrong,” said a shopkeeper, adding that the sudden action has created anxiety among shopkeepers.

What were the outcomes of previous such campaigns?

Previous anti-encroachment campaigns in Rohtak provided only temporary relief, as encroachments often resurfaced after initial removal. “Many shopkeepers resumed occupying public spaces once enforcement weak ended. This time, the MC aims to sustain the results by combining encroachment removal with strict penalties and property-tax recovery measures, signaling a more comprehensive and determined approach than in the past,” said Dr Anand Kumar Sharma, Commissioner, MC. However, he also said under the campaign, eight acres was also reclaimed in Sunaria village three months ago.

What actions have been taken under the ongoing drive so far?

The MC began the week by conducting a special campaign to clear encroachments from major markets and simultaneously recover outstanding property taxes. Intensive operations were carried out on Railway Road, Qila Road, Model Town, and nearby areas. During the drive, goods belonging to 70 shopkeepers—including racks, boards, banners, tents, and tables—were seized. “Illegal encroachments on roadsides, footpaths and public spaces were removed. Warnings were also issued to the shopkeepers, stating that any future encroachments would invite removal and fines,” said Sharma. He further said alongside the encroachment clearance, action was taken against property-tax defaulters. A paying-guest accommodation on Ladhot Road, a commercial property in Sun City, and another in Bohar village were sealed for outstanding dues totalling nearly Rs 1.5 crore. Notices were also sent to other defaulters, instructing them to clear their dues promptly to avoid legal action.

How long will the drive be carried out?

Commissioner Anand Kumar Sharma stated that the MC would continue its anti-encroachment and property-tax recovery campaigns in the coming weeks. He emphasised that the citizens shared responsibility in keeping public spaces clear and paying taxes on time. The ongoing drive, he added, would be sustained until markets are made fully encroachment-free and civic order is restored across the city. Sharma urged the shopkeepers and traders to cooperate with the MC to make Rohtak city encroachment free.