Pindi faces renewed encroachment crisis
Following months of anti-encroachment operations that had temporarily eased congestion, street vendors and other movable encroachments have once again taken over key roads and public spaces across Rawalpindi.
As the Rawalpindi Cantonment Board (RCB) eased its monitoring efforts, vendors quickly reoccupied cleared spaces, severely disrupting both vehicular and pedestrian movement. Areas such as Tench Bhatta, Lal Kurti, Mughalabad, and Kamalabad — previously targeted in anti-encroachment drives — are once again struggling with the resurgence of illegal stalls and makeshift setups.
The situation is further aggravated by the lack of designated parking spaces for rickshaws, which are present in large numbers and contribute significantly to the traffic chaos. Residents report frequent arguments and confrontations among commuters, citing the absence of visible traffic police as a major concern.
Citizens have expressed frustration over the ineffectiveness of RCB's anti-encroachment efforts, which are often conducted early in the morning before markets openlimiting their long-term impact.
When contacted, RCB sources confirmed that preparations are underway for a fresh, large-scale operation. Notices have been served to vendors and shopkeepers, warning them to voluntarily remove encroachments or face demolition.