Mohali Administration Takes Decisive Action: Phase 3B2 Market Encroachments Cleared Amidst Protests

Picture this: a usually bustling market, packed with shoppers and vendors, suddenly transforming into a scene of decisive action. That's precisely what unfolded recently in Mohali’s Phase 3B2 market, as authorities embarked on a significant anti-encroachment drive. It wasn't just a small sweep; we're talking about a full-scale operation to reclaim public spaces, clear illegal structures, and address the persistent problem of shopkeepers extending their businesses far beyond their designated areas.

The joint effort, spearheaded by the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) and the Mohali Municipal Corporation, saw a substantial contingent of police force on the ground. Heavy machinery, specifically JCBs, was deployed to demolish any unauthorized constructions. Imagine the sight: structures that had stood for years, perhaps even decades, crumbling down, while various goods – from vibrant vegetable displays and fruit carts to entire stalls – were systematically seized. The whole idea, you see, is to create much-needed space for pedestrians, allowing them to walk freely without navigating an obstacle course, and in turn, alleviate some of the notorious traffic congestion that has plagued the area.

Now, this wasn't some snap decision out of the blue. Far from it. The administration had actually been quite patient, issuing stern warnings to the market's merchants nearly two months prior. They were given ample time, a clear deadline in fact, to voluntarily remove any encroachments. But, as often happens, these warnings largely went unheeded. Subsequently, a group of shopkeepers even approached GMADA’s chief administrator, pleading for an additional month to comply. However, that appeal was flatly rejected, signaling the authorities’ unwavering resolve to push forward with the planned cleanup.

Naturally, such a drastic measure wasn't met with universal applause. Many shopkeepers expressed deep frustration, arguing that their shops simply lack adequate internal space, practically forcing them to expand outwards. Some even pointed fingers at what they described as a flawed market layout, contributing to the problem. There were also claims of arbitrary action and outright harassment by the officials. A particularly interesting point of contention was the shopkeepers' assertion that they had obtained a stay order from the High Court. However, officials like GMADA ACA Rajdeep Kaur and MC Commissioner Kulwant Singh, along with DSP H.S. Bal, were quick to dismiss these claims, stating unequivocally that no such stay order was in effect for the Phase 3B2 market.

In the end, despite the protests and the obvious tension, the drive proceeded as planned. It serves as a strong message from the administration: public space is public space. And let's be honest, this isn't a one-off event. The authorities have made it clear that similar anti-encroachment operations are already on the docket for other markets across Mohali. So, while the dust settles in Phase 3B2, it seems this concerted effort to bring order to chaotic market spaces is just getting started.