Illegal shops, rickshaw stands demolished

The district administration on Wednesday demolished dozens of illegal shops, unauthorised structures and rickshaw stands during a citywide anti-encroachment operation.

According to a spokesperson, the operation was carried out with support from the Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority (PERA) force.

The crackdown focused on Chak 46 South, a key stretch along the Sargodha-Faisalabad road where illegal structures had been causing severe traffic congestion.

Speaking to the media, Assistant Commissioner Sherin Gul said the encroachments were obstructing traffic flow and hampering emergency services, including ambulances and rescue vehicles, from reaching the Tehsil headquarters hospital.

She reiterated that the administration had adopted a zero-tolerance policy against encroachments.

Officials urged citizens to avoid illegally occupying public spaces and to cooperate with authorities to ensure unhindered access for emergency services.

Meanwhile, Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) Director General Chaudhry Muhammad Arshad paid a surprise visit to Ali Park to inspect facilities. A spokesperson stated that the park had been opened for the public after completing development work.

The DG reviewed the drainage system for ensuring that rainwater is properly drained. He inspected the recreational facilities, including swings, and ordered improvements.

In another development, the University of Sargodha signed a memorandum of understanding with the Rotary Club Sargodha to collaborate in promoting environmental sustainability and community development.

The club will provide plants free of charge for the university's plantation campaigns.