Jammu: The Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC), in collaboration with the traffic police and district administration, has intensified its anti-encroachment drive across the city. After a successful operation at Indira Chowk, the authorities have now turned their focus to BC Road and the areas around the bus stand.
The drive aims to clear footpaths and public spaces occupied by shopkeepers and street vendors, ensuring smooth pedestrian movement and easing traffic congestion. Municipal officials were seen seizing goods displayed outside shops, blocking pathways, and causing inconvenience to the public.
“Encroaching footpaths is not acceptable. We have given enough warnings, and now we are seizing goods and imposing fines. This drive will continue until the city is clear of encroachments,” a JMC official stated.
While the administration maintains its firm stance, street vendors and shopkeepers express concerns about their livelihoods. Many claim they are forced to operate on footpaths due to the lack of designated vending zones.
“We are not against paying fines, but seizing our goods every time affects our survival. We have families to feed, and this is our only source of income,” said a street vendor near the bus stand.
Shopkeepers argue that if the administration cannot provide alternative spaces for vendors, they should at least adopt a fine-based system instead of confiscation.
JMC officials clarified that the footpaths are meant for pedestrians, not for commercial purposes. Under the Smart City initiative, the administration is determined to maintain order and cleanliness in public spaces.
“We respect everyone’s livelihood, but the footpaths must remain clear. Violators will face strict action, including fines and confiscation of goods,” the official added.
