Shimla MC mulls legal action to curb rising illegal encroachments

To clamp down on increasing unauthorised encroachments across Shimla’s marketplaces, the Municipal Corporation (MC) is considering approaching the court to seek stricter provisions against illegal street vending. The move aims to enable stronger legal action against offenders who continue to occupy market areas despite repeated warnings.

Mayor Surinder Chauhan said currently, the corporation confiscates goods of unauthorised vendors found selling illegally and returns them after imposing a fine. “However, despite penalties and regular warnings, many vendors return to the same spots. This persistent violation has left us with no option but to pursue stronger legal action,” he said.

He added that both illegal street vendors and shopkeepers encroaching upon market spaces will face strict legal proceedings if caught flouting norms. “Legal action is the only effective way to curb the practice of encroachments in the town,” he added.

The decision follows a recent confrontation at The Mall Road, where several shopkeepers allegedly obstructed civic workers carrying out an anti-encroachment drive. The shopkeepers reportedly threatened and verbally abused the officials, forcing police personnel to intervene and restore order. MC officials noted that unauthorised vending and illegal encroachments cause avoidable crowding and traffic congestion in already narrow market lanes.