Encroachments in key business centres of Chaklala Cantonment Board continue unabated, causing significant disruptions to traffic and pedestrian movement.
Allegations have surfaced that enforcement staff, in collusion with encroachment mafias, are facilitating the illegal occupation of footpaths and roadsides, turning anti-encroachment efforts into a futile exercise.
Despite directives from the new Executive Officer of Chaklala Cantonment Board, Aamir Rasheed, to eradicate encroachments, areas like Dheri Hassanabad, Lalazar, Lal Kurti, Marrir Hassan, Tipu Road, and Jhanda Chichi Bazaar remain heavily encroached.
Wooden boards, pushcarts, stalls, and cabins block pathways, creating challenges for commuters and raising security concerns.
Reports indicate that confiscated goods from anti-encroachment drives are often returned to violators without proper documentation, with cash fines allegedly collected informally. Gulistan Colony and surrounding areas have seen similar practices, undermining the credibility of enforcement operations.
Repeated attempts to contact Khadim Satti, head of the enforcement department, for comment on the matter went unanswered. However, Raja Irfan Imtiaz, a former Vice president and member of the cantonment board, acknowledged the gravity of the situation.
"Encroachments in business centres are a persistent issue. Despite raising the matter repeatedly in board meetings, operations against encroachments are temporary, and the problem resurfaces soon after," he stated.
Board Member Chaudhry Khurram Siddique echoed these concerns, emphasising the need for a sustainable and robust anti-encroachment strategy.
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