Subhash Mahajan
Chamba
On Thursday, a joint team of the Municipal Council and local police launched a large-scale campaign against illegal street vendors in Chamba town. The operation, led by Executive Officer Rakhi, Municipal Council President Neelam Nayyar, member Nitika, and the Station House Officer, resulted in the seizure of goods from several vendors.
- Around 30 illegal stalls were confiscated during the day-long drive.
- Several permanent encroachments were demolished, creating panic among vendors and shopkeepers.
- Shopkeepers were warned that placing goods outside their shops would lead to fines and confiscation in the future.
Officials stated that seized goods would only be returned after imposing heavy penalties. The crackdown comes after repeated complaints about shopkeepers extending displays onto roads, obstructing pedestrian movement and causing difficulties for drivers.
Historic sites, main markets, and busy intersections had been encroached upon, with shopkeepers displaying goods several feet into the streets. With the influx of tourists from other states, congestion in the town had worsened, prompting immediate action.
The team appealed to vendors and shopkeepers to operate strictly within designated areas, warning that further violations would invite strict legal measures.
