TAXILA: The local administration on Friday cleared all main spots especially G.T. Road and bus stand in Hassanabdal of encroachments.

Led by Assistant Commissioner Dr Sana Ramchand, officials from the National Highway Authority, tehsil municipal administration (TMA) and the police removed the encroachments from both sides of the G.T. Road at the main bus stand and adjacent areas.

During the operation, authorities also demolished several illegal extensions and encroachments made by shopkeepers by placing their merchandise especially vegetables, fruit, second hand clothing and soft drink on the roadsides.

The local administration used heavy machinery to remove cemented encroachments and steel fixtures which were constructed and erected in front of various shops and plazas.

A heavy contingent of police was present to deal with any untoward incident.

Pushcart vendors were also removed from the bus stand and roads.

“We have time and again had warned the vendors to remove the encroachments on their own.

“However, when they did not pay heed to our requests, we had to take action,” said Dr Sana while talking to newsmen at the site to monitor the operation.

Replying to a question, she said it would be ensured that no encroachment is made in the area in future.

The deputy commissioner said legal action would be taken against encroachers in future and no pressure of whatsoever would be tolerated.

Responding to another question, she said that if any official of the TMA was found supporting the encroachers or protecting them action would also be taken against them. Meanwhile, TMA officials warned shopkeepers against making any encroachment in future.

Published in Dawn, June 17th, 2023