Rajouri, March 03 (Abrar Mughal): The encroachment of roads by street vendors, popularly known as rehriwalas, in the bustling areas of Mandi and Exchange Road has led to significant public inconvenience, causing frustration among commuters and vehicle owners. The unauthorized occupation of parking zones, particularly the designated white-line parking areas, has exacerbated traffic congestion and raised serious concerns about road safety and urban planning.Residents and daily commuters have been grappling with severe difficulties as rehriwalas have occupied substantial portions of the roads, leaving no space for legal parking. The traffic police, in an effort to maintain order, have been issuing challans to vehicles parked on the roadside. However, motorists argue that they have no alternative but to park on the road since the designated parking spots are already taken over by vendors.With the increasing number of vehicles on Rajouri’s roads, parking has become a major issue in the town. The white-line areas, meant for systematic parking, have been completely encroached upon by rehriwalas who set up their makeshift stalls, selling vegetables, fruits, and other items. This has not only blocked the designated parking zones but has also significantly reduced the road width, leading to frequent traffic snarls. Commuters, especially office-goers and traders, have expressed their resentment over the situation. “The authorities have marked white lines for parking, but if rehriwalas occupy that space, where should we park? It is unfair that the traffic police are penalizing us when the real issue is not being addressed,” said Anil Sharma, a local shopkeeper. Another resident, Sunita Verma, echoed similar concerns. “Many times, we have to go around in circles to find a parking spot. If we park on the road, we get fined. But if the vendors continue to encroach, the authorities should first clear them before penalizing us.”In response to the growing traffic congestion, the traffic police have launched a drive to impose fines on vehicles parked along the roadside. Numerous vehicles have been challaned over the past few weeks, further aggravating the frustration of vehicle owners.A traffic police official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated, “Our duty is to ensure that roads remain free from obstructions and that traffic rules are followed. Unauthorized parking is a violation, and we are compelled to take action. However, we acknowledge the issue of street vendors occupying parking spaces. We have communicated this matter to the higher authorities for necessary action.”Despite these assurances, many residents feel that the enforcement is one-sided. “Why are only vehicle owners being targeted? The real culprits are those who have illegally occupied public space. Authorities should clear them first instead of troubling the public,” said Ramesh Gupta, a daily commuter.In light of the mounting complaints, local authorities have assured the public that the matter is being looked into. A senior official from the municipal committee stated, “We are aware of the problem and are working on a long-term solution. We have identified certain areas where vendors can be relocated. A structured approach will be adopted to ensure that neither vendors nor the public suffer.”The administration should consider the Establishing dedicated vending zones where Rehri walas can conduct their business without interfering with traffic also Conducting regular drives to ensure that white-line parking zones remain free from encroachments. Developing new parking lots in strategic locations to accommodate the growing number of vehicles. Ensuring that both entities work together to address the root causes rather than just penalizing vehicle owners.Despite assurances from the authorities, the public remains skeptical. Many believe that unless stringent action is taken against encroachers, the problem will persist. “We have heard such promises before, but little has changed. We need strict implementation of rules and continuous monitoring,” said Rajesh Mehta, a local businessman.Residents have urged authorities to conduct regular surveys, identify habitual encroachers, and take immediate action. Some have even suggested the deployment of more traffic personnel during peak hours to manage the situation better.The encroachment of roads by rehriwalas in Rajouri’s Mandi and Exchange Road has emerged as a pressing urban issue, highlighting the need for balanced urban planning and strict enforcement of rules. While vendors argue for their livelihood, commuters demand their right to use roads and parking spaces without unnecessary hindrances. It is now up to the authorities to strike a balance between livelihood and public convenience by implementing fair and effective solutions.As the situation continues to escalate, residents hope that swift and concrete action will be taken to restore order and ensure smooth vehicular movement in these congested areas. Until then, the daily struggles of motorists and pedestrians in Rajouri remain an unresolved challenge.
Author: therajouritimes
Lakkar Mandi Janipur Jammu
