Mohali:
Following repeated complaints from commuters, pedestrians and passersby, a ground survey of Industrial Area Phase 5 has highlighted a serious civic issue: large stretches of the designated pedestrian and footpath area are allegedly being occupied by vehicles parked in connection with the repair and servicing of Mahindra vehicles.
According to observations during the survey, vehicles awaiting repair or service were found parked not only within the premises of service-related establishments but also along pedestrian spaces and footpaths. The encroachment is forcing pedestrians to step onto the main carriageway, creating an avoidable risk of accidents, particularly during busy hours.
The situation has also raised concerns about traffic movement and the intended use of public spaces. Footpaths are meant to provide a safe passage for pedestrians, but their occupation by parked vehicles leaves commuters with little option but to walk alongside moving traffic.
Residents and regular commuters have urged the Municipal Corporation and other concerned authorities to conduct an immediate inspection of the area, identify the establishments responsible for obstructing public pedestrian space and take effective action against illegal parking and encroachments.
Commuters have also appealed for a sustained enforcement drive rather than temporary action, saying that footpaths should be restored and kept free from vehicles so that pedestrians can move safely.
The issue has once again brought into focus the need for stricter monitoring of commercial and industrial areas, where public roads and pedestrian infrastructure are increasingly coming under pressure from indiscriminate parking and encroachments. But Who Cares???
