Illegal vends and openings on KMP Expressways pose risk to commuters

Illegal commercial activities, including the operation of liquor vends, on the side of the Expressways passing through the district has emerged as a cause concern for many including the law keeping agencies.

According to sources, commuting on the Expressways like the Kundli- Manesar-Palwal (KMP), which is also known as Western Peripheral Expressway, has become unsafe due to several activities.

At several spots on the 55 km distance between Palwal and Manesar, illegal activities including sale of liquor in unauthorised manner is rampant, they claimed.

“While the illegal vends had been causing a loss of revenue to the state excise department, commuters also face risk of accidents as vehicles halted at such spots could become a cause of mishaps,” said an employee on condition of anonymity.

Beside illegal cuts, poor condition of road defeats the very purpose of providing a safe and non-stop travel on the expressway which connects Palwal with Kundli in Sonepat, he added.

Sale of petrol and diesel had also been done in an illegal manner at certain points, said sources.

Kulveer, a local resident, said that presence of anti-social elements on the highway or expressway also pose a threat to the safety of the commuters during night.

“Several kilometres of the passage on the KMP and KGP emanating from Palwal have been lying damaged or potholed resulting in problems,” said an entrepreneur.

Meanwhile, a police spokesperson said that action is being taken to curb the smuggling or sale of illicit liquor.

The department has recovered 4,701 bottles and 42 litres of illicit liquor worth several lakhs in as many as 80 incidents in the past one month, said police spokesperson Sanjay Kumar.

Two illegal vends had been unearthed by CM flying squad at two villages in the district recently.

Palwal DC Harish Vashisht said the excise department officials have been directed to conduct a probe into the matter.