Srinagar: The Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) on Friday intensified its anti-encroachment campaign, removing illegal shop extensions and roadside structures from multiple localities across the city. The drive was led by Chief Anti-Encroachment Officer Mohammad Syed.
Officials dismantled unauthorized extensions by shopkeepers, mutton and chicken vendors, and other commercial establishments that had occupied footpaths, pavements, hospital entrances, and roadside spaces. Merchandise, cages, and concrete structures were removed on the spot.
Key hospital access points, including those at LD Hospital and SKIMS Soura, were cleared to ensure uninterrupted movement for patients and emergency vehicles. “Footpaths, roads and hospital zones are for public use and we will not allow anyone to violate that,” Syed said.
Areas covered in the operation included Batamaloo, Jehangir Chowk, Hari Singh High Street, Qamarwari, Bemina, B.B. Cantt, and 90-Feet Road, among others. The SMC issued show-cause notices under Section 181 of the SMC Act, 2000, giving violators three days to remove encroachments or face fines, prosecution, and forced clearance at their expense.
Residents welcomed the move, calling it necessary for easing pedestrian movement and improving civic order. The SMC said the campaign will continue in all wards to reclaim public spaces and improve urban mobility.
