Report: ANI Reporter :
ISLAMABAD — Growing complaints of alleged encroachments and unregulated roadside parking around Taramri Chowk and adjoining areas have caused increasing difficulties for pedestrians, motorists and public transport users, according to local residents.
Residents said vegetable and fruit carts, kiosks, roadside commercial activities and vehicles parked along the road have reduced traffic capacity at several points within the jurisdiction of Shehzad Town Police Station. They claimed that what initially began with a few roadside carts had gradually developed into permanent kiosks and shop-like structures at some locations.
According to citizens, the situation has also affected the bus stop near Taramri Chowk, where roadside encroachments and parking allegedly prevent public transport vehicles from stopping at suitable locations. Passengers are consequently forced to board or leave vehicles on the road, creating additional safety concerns.
Residents further complained that roadside commercial activities and parking from Taramri Chowk towards Old Bank Stop and Satra Meel have narrowed portions of the road and footpaths. They said vehicles parked near private institutions and hospitals, including HBS, further contribute to congestion and could potentially obstruct the movement of ambulances during emergencies.
Citizens questioned the legal status of permanent kiosks and structures established along public roads and footpaths. They demanded that authorities clarify whether such activities have been formally permitted and, if not, take action in accordance with the law.
Residents said anti-encroachment operations carried out periodically provide only temporary relief, as carts and kiosks allegedly reappear after a short period. They called for a permanent monitoring mechanism rather than one-time operations.
They urged the CDA Enforcement Department, District Administration, Islamabad Traffic Police, municipal authorities and Shehzad Town Police Station administration to conduct a joint inspection of the road from Taramri Chowk to Old Bank Stop and Satra Meel, identify temporary and permanent encroachments, address illegal parking and ensure clear pedestrian and traffic routes.
Citizens also called for a comprehensive traffic management plan covering bus stops, pedestrian pathways, parking areas, shops, vendors and emergency vehicle routes. They suggested that designated spaces for vegetable and fruit vendors could help protect livelihoods while keeping the main road clear.
Residents stressed that action should be uniform and non-discriminatory, with the same rules applied to permanent shopkeepers, temporary vendors and vehicle owners obstructing public pathways.
They appealed to the relevant authorities to take immediate notice of the situation and ensure sustained enforcement so that roads, footpaths and bus stops remain accessible to the public and emergency services.
