Chamba cops remove illegal vendors, target drug hotspots

The Chamba police launched a major crackdown on encroachers along the Chamba city and the Kasakda road. The operation also targeted drug users in areas near the new bus stand. In a decisive move, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Jitender Chaudhary led the drive, ensuring that illegal vendors and makeshift shops set up along the roadsides were removed.

During the inspection, the police cleared footpaths and roads occupied by unauthorised vendors, particularly on the route from Delhi Gate to the new bus stand via Kasakda. Street vendors and shopkeepers who had set up their stalls illegally were warned against repeating such actions. The DSP issued a stern warning, stating that if anyone was found setting up their stalls illegally again, strict action would be taken, and their goods would be seized.

The crackdown created panic among encroachers, who hastily removed their setups. The police also conducted a thorough inspection of the Chamba bus stand and nearby areas. A Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) bus parked at the station was found filled with garbage, including empty packets of tobacco and other intoxicants. Several youths sitting inside the bus were interrogated and searched. The police also searched young men gathered behind the HRTC workshop and advised them to stay away from such places, focus on their studies, and avoid drug use.

With increasing encroachments, Chamba city is becoming increasingly congested. Unauthorised stalls and shops set up along roads and footpaths make it difficult for pedestrians to walk. Moreover, the illegal parking of vehicles adds to traffic congestion, making commuting a daily struggle for residents. The road leading from Chamba’s main market to the new bus stand has become a hotspot for encroachments, with vendors occupying both sides of the street.

The steep and hazardous nature of the road, combined with the presence of encroachments and two-wheeler traffic, poses a constant risk to pedestrians. Several incidents have already occurred where pedestrians were hit by passing vehicles.

Encroachments are also widespread in key areas such as Gandhi Gate, the city’s main square, the old bus stand, and the medical college road. Despite repeated actions by the administration and the municipal council, encroachers return within days of being removed.

Residents have urged the administration to take stricter measures to prevent repeated encroachments and ensure that public spaces remain free from illegal occupation.

Chaudhary said that vendors and illegal setups have been removed, and strict instructions have been given to prevent future encroachments. He also confirmed that police raids were conducted at the Chamba bus stand and surrounding areas, where some spots had turned into hubs for drug activity.

The police questioned young men found in these areas and warned them against gathering in such places. Further actions will be taken to maintain law and order and keep the city free from illegal encroachments and drug-related activities.