Peshawar struggles with street clutter

Pedestrian movement rendered nearly impossible in Khyber, Shoba bazaars

PESHAWAR:

The bustling commerce centres of Peshawar – namely, Khyber and Shoba Bazar – are facing a severe encroachment issue that has rendered pedestrian movement nearly impossible for residents.

Shopkeepers, stretching the limits of their establishments, have encroached upon the footpaths, leaving scant space for passersby.

The footpaths, meant for pedestrian use, are now cluttered with merchandise, exacerbating the problem with trucks parked on both sides of the roads, adding to the chaos and traffic disturbances.

The district administration has taken notice of the issue, issuing warnings to the shopkeepers to cease encroachments. However, the problem persists as stalls outside the shops have been leased to vendors.

Moreover, vehicles transporting electronic goods have occupied sections of the road, exacerbating the congestion.

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The dire lack of available parking spaces due to these encroachments has resulted in traffic snarl-ups, particularly in Khyber Bazar, inconveniencing shoppers and passersby alike.

Taking action against this encroachment, Additional Assistant Commissioner Engineer Misbah Waheed, accompanied by traffic police, conducted inspections in Khyber Bazar and Shoba Bazar.

Notices were issued to shopkeepers, cautioning them against encroachment and instructing them to confine their goods within the shop premises.

During the visits, shopkeepers were sternly advised against setting up encroachments outside their shops. They were warned of potential legal consequences should they fail to comply with the directives.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 5^th, 2023.