The Mohali Beopar Mandal, a prominent traders' association, has voiced strong criticism against the Municipal Corporation (MC) for what it describes as severe civic mismanagement and inconsistent enforcement in the city's commercial zones. The body has highlighted ongoing problems including rampant encroachment, chaotic parking situations, and significant delays in waste clearance that are plaguing vital market areas.
Parking Spaces Occupied by Vendors
Under the leadership of its president, Sarabjit Singh Paras, the traders' organization alleged on Thursday that street vendors are persistently occupying designated parking spaces with minimal intervention from the MC authorities. This unauthorized occupation has drastically reduced available parking for customers, negatively impacting business operations and leading to frequent traffic congestion around major commercial hubs.
"We have repeatedly urged the MC to remove all obstacles created by various elements from market parking areas, but the corporation has failed to take effective action," Paras stated. "Vendors are occupying parking lots with impunity, causing significant inconvenience to both visitors and shopkeepers," he further emphasized.
Additional Concerns Raised by Traders
The association also brought attention to another pressing issue: vehicles left for repair being parked behind showrooms for extended periods. These abandoned vehicles are blocking service lanes and emergency access routes, creating safety hazards and further constricting the already limited space in market areas.
Lack of Proper Parking Demarcation
The Beopar Mandal criticized the absence of proper parking demarcation in market zones, noting that the lack of clear markings results in haphazard parking arrangements. This disorganization contributes to increased congestion and frequent disputes among motorists and shop owners.
Sanitation Delays Highlighted
Sanitation delays were another major point of contention raised by the traders. Shopkeepers reported that rubbish clearance often occurs late in the morning, sometimes after 11am, by which time markets are already open and operational. "Cleaning activities should be completed early in the morning, preferably before 10am, to maintain proper hygiene standards and provide a positive shopping environment for customers," Paras added.
Call for Immediate Action
The traders' body has urgently appealed to the MC to address these issues promptly, warning that continued inaction could severely harm commercial activity and damage the market's reputation among residents and visitors alike. The association stressed that effective civic management is crucial for sustaining business vitality and ensuring public safety in Mohali's commercial districts.
