Encroachments, garbage choke PUDA Complex, MC sleeps

What was once a prime commercial space near the Deputy Commissioner’s office has now turned into a chaotic dump, with car scrap dealers occupying footpaths and parking areas inside the PUDA complex and vacant plots converted into open garbage dumps.

Visitors and SCO owners say repeated complaints have fallen on deaf ears and the inaction by the authorities has now made the situation unbearable.

The stretch of Ladowali Road from Ajit Chowk to Alaska Chowk is lined with illegally parked scrap vehicles, forcing commuters to navigate through the congested road. The situation is so grim that locals now sarcastically refer to the stretch as ‘Kabaad Wali Road’.

“It’s impossible for big vehicles to pass. Shopkeepers have placed scraps right on the roadside,” said Kamaljeet Singh, a regular commuter. “The area stinks, garbage lies scattered and those who live or work nearby are forced to bear it every day.”

But the worst-hit is the PUDA complex itself. Footpaths, pavements and designated parking spaces have been overrun by scrap dealers who have dumped unused vehicles and heaps of solid waste across the area. The plot has been converted into a dumping ground, creating a serious health hazard.

Mahesh, who runs an office in the complex, said, “We’ve made repeated requests to the authorities to clear encroachments. But every time we speak to the scrap dealers, they brush us off, asking where else they should put their vehicles.”

Manish, another businessman, added, “Our clients avoid coming here now. The environment is filthy and parking is impossible. This is hurting our businesses. The authorities need to act not just here, but across the entire Ladowali Road where the same issue continues.”

Frustrated SCO owners allege that both Municipal Corporation (MC) and Punjab Urban Planning and Development Authority (PUDA) have been passing the buck for years. “No one wants to take responsibility. This mess has been growing for years and we’re the ones paying the price,” said one office owner.

PUDA officials claim that encroachment removal and cleanliness fall under the MC’s jurisdiction. Meanwhile, Mayor Vaneet Dhir has assured immediate intervention. “I will instruct the officials concerned to act on it without delay,” he said.

Jalandhar