Countering the menace: Encroachments leading to frequent traffic jams in Sargodha

TMA officials say traffic problem will be resolved on priority basis.

SARGODHA: Encroachments are not only resulting in roadblocks but also becoming a source of inconvenience for the people of Sargodha. Traffic police and anti-encroachment staff of the Tehsil Municipal Administration (TMA) seem least interested in clearing the occupied spaces.

The residents of the city say the TMA has failed to remove encroachments from different areas which is causing huge traffic jams, both during the day and at night. Long queues of vehicles could be seen stuck in traffic jam in different areas of the city, including Khayam Chowk, University Road, 47 Pull, Quanchi Mor, Bypass Chowk, Islam Pura Bridge, Shaheen Chowk, Satellite Town Chowk, Old Satellite Town, Katchery Bazaar, Muslim Bazaar, Urdu Bazaar, Tahli Chowk, Chungi No 9 and other surrounding areas.

The most affected area is Liaquat Market, which is a well-known bicycle and lubricants market. Its traders have occupied a part of a recreation park adjacent to the TMA office. Besides, oil dealers sell lubricants, oil and petrol and permanently keep heavy tanks on the roadside, while bicycle dealers have also removed the footpath and made that area a part of their shops by furthering their shed up to 10 feet.

Irshad Hussain, a resident of Cheema Colony, told The Express Tribune, “Commuting has become a nightmare in this city. It is a routine that I get stuck in traffic jam for almost an hour.” He added, “The government should come up with an effective plan to address the problem.”

Similarly, Muzammil Rashid, a student and resident of Jinnah Colony said, “Encroachments have destroyed the beauty of this city and it has become a menace for the residents.” He maintained, “Those involved in encroaching public space should be arrested and fines should be imposed on them to teach them a lesson.”

Irate residents of the city demanded the authorities concerned to take action against encroachments and devise a proper parking plan for resolving traffic problems.

Meanwhile, a TMA official, requesting anonymity said, “Directions have been issued to remove encroachments from the city sites and soon traffic problem would be resolved.” He added, “We have directed the officials to take strict action against those involved in violating rules.”

Published in The Express Tribune, April 24^th, 2017.