Encroachment Removal Drive in Haldwani: Municipal Team Takes Action, But Lasting Solution Still Elusive in Haldwani:

pavneet Singh bindra

Haldwani Municipal Corporation team, along with the district administration, carried out an anti-encroachment drive in the city’s main market areas on Sunday. The operation covered Patel Chowk, Meera Marg, Bartan Bazaar, Sadar Bazaar, and Kaladungi Chowk, where goods illegally placed on footpaths were seized. Shopkeepers who allowed stalls to be set up in front of their stores were fined ₹25,000 each.The corporation also took action against street vendors operating without a valid municipal vending card. Officials stated that the drive against illegal encroachments and unauthorized stalls will continue regularly, and announcements are being made in market areas to spread awareness.Municipal Commissioner, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Rahul Shah, and City Magistrate Gopal Chauhan were present during the operation.Superficial Drive or Real Change?Despite repeated drives, locals argue that such actions often remain symbolic. Once the administrative team leaves, encroachments return to their previous state. Questions have also been raised about the condition and lawful usage of municipal shops—many of which reportedly charge around ₹12,000 per month from vendors for placing their carts in front, even though the space belongs to public roads.Encroachments Creating InconvenienceIllegal stalls and extensions in marketplace areas continue to cause discomfort and congestion for shoppers. The overcrowded conditions at times even lead to incidents of harassment against women, which often go unreported. In contrast, many people now prefer shopping malls due to their safer and organized environment.A Continuous Cat-and-Mouse GameLocals believe that until strict and long-term measures are implemented, the situation will continue as a game of “hide and seek.” As soon as the administrative team leaves, encroachers return—reflecting a cycle of temporary order and recurring chaos