Mohali Municipal Corporation Intensifies Anti-Encroachment Drive, Targets High-Profile Individuals
On the fourth day of its rigorous anti-encroachment campaign, the Mohali Municipal Corporation (MC) executed significant actions against illegal occupations across the city on Thursday. The drive specifically targeted properties belonging to several influential figures, marking a decisive step in reclaiming public spaces.
High-Profile Encroachments Removed, Including Former Police Officer's Property
In a notable development, municipal teams cleared an encroachment in Phase 5 that was allegedly linked to a former senior Punjab Police officer. This action underscores the MC's commitment to impartial enforcement, regardless of the occupants' status or connections. Additionally, encroachments near the residence of the Deputy Commissioner in Mohali were also removed, creating considerable attention within the locality.
Resistance and Delays Encountered During Operations
The drive faced substantial challenges in Phase 3B2, where a homeowner, previously granted an extension, again sought more time instead of complying with removal orders. The situation escalated when the individual reportedly clung to an excavator, causing nearly three hours of delay and disrupting the operation. Municipal employees persevered, clearing the entire park which had been illegally occupied with railings and vegetable plantations, indicating long-term misuse.
Sanitation staff were promptly deployed to restore the park, with cleaning activities visible post-removal. Officials noted that resistance and protests from some locals, coupled with insufficient police presence, led to halts in action at various spots, complicating the enforcement efforts.
Voluntary Compliance and Public Awareness on the Rise
A positive trend emerged as many residents began voluntarily dismantling their illegal structures. This shift reflects a growing public realization that influence or connections with senior officials will no longer shield encroachers from consequences. In Phase 5, a significant number of residents had already cleared encroachments ahead of municipal intervention, demonstrating increased compliance.
Commissioner's Stern Warnings and Legal Measures
Municipal Commissioner Parminder Pal Singh issued a firm warning, emphasizing that all opposition to the anti-encroachment action is being fully videographed. He stated, "Apart from recovering the cost incurred in removing encroachments, FIRs will also be registered against those creating obstruction." Singh further warned that in cases of re-encroachment, evidence will be forwarded to GMADA, potentially leading to property cancellation for repeat offenders.
He asserted that strict legal action will be taken against anyone assaulting or intimidating officials during the drive, reinforcing the MC's zero-tolerance policy towards obstruction.
Ongoing Campaign and Public Demands
The MC clarified that the anti-encroachment campaign will continue in the coming days across various parts of Mohali, conducted in strict compliance with high court directives and without discrimination. An official highlighted, "Illegal encroachments not only misuse public land but also cause inconvenience to common citizens."
Meanwhile, residents have called for prior notices and enhanced police arrangements to prevent confrontations in future operations, balancing enforcement with community concerns.
