Encroachments cause chaos in Hamirpur, authorities fail to act

The increasing encroachment in the town’s main market has become a serious issue, with shopkeepers expanding their displays onto the road and drains, making it difficult to maintain cleanliness and traffic flow. Despite concerns raised by residents, authorities have failed to take action.

The local urban body, formerly a municipal committee, was recently upgraded to a municipal corporation. People had hoped for better civic management, including relief from market encroachments, but the situation has worsened instead. Shopkeepers continue to occupy public spaces, further narrowing the already congested road.

A major concern is the encroachment near the Bachat Bhawan complex, close to the DC office, where the district administration had auctioned shops. Shopkeepers have taken over corridors and even the road, causing difficulties for pedestrians and vehicles. The complex also houses a post office, visited by over 500 people daily. The open space once used for temporary parking and access to public toilets is now blocked by unauthorised stock displays. Despite repeated objections from citizens, the shopkeepers have refused to clear the area.

Surprisingly, no action has been taken by the police, Municipal Corporation, or Public Works Department, despite the encroachments being in plain sight.

Local residents have expressed their frustration. Monica Kumari, a town resident, said that encroachment has become a trend, with shopkeepers competing to display more stock outside their shops. Raman Kumar echoed similar sentiments, stating that the government seems uninterested in addressing the issue. OP Gupta, a senior citizen, pointed out that the market has become unsafe for elderly people and women.

Municipal Commissioner Rahul Chauhan acknowledged the problem and said that he had advised shopkeepers to keep their stock within their shops. He assured that strict action would soon be taken to remove encroachments and restore order in the market.

Until concrete action is taken, the increasing encroachments continue to create inconvenience and safety hazards for the public.