Crackdown on illegal vendors in Manali as MC launches ‘Swachhata Prahari’ initiative

The Manali Municipal Council (MC) has intensified its campaign against illegal encroachments along Gompa Road and Mall Road, taking firm action against unauthorised vendors operating on footpaths and public spaces in the tourist hub. In a significant move today, the MC removed a large number of encroachments on Gompa Road, addressing long-standing complaints from local residents.

This crackdown follows directives from the Manali Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), who ordered the removal of encroachments in December last year. In February, the MC had issued notices and used loudspeakers to warn illegal vendors to vacate public spaces. Despite repeated warnings, many continued to run unauthorized businesses using mobile carts (rehris), makeshift stalls, and commercial extensions.

Hawkers have been particularly active in areas such as Gompa Road, Mall Road, Manu Market, Sabzi Market, and Model Town. These stalls—often run by individuals from outside the region—have led to overcrowding and inconvenienced pedestrians and tourists. Vendors selling snacks like siddu, momos, golgappas, peanuts, and sweets such as gulab jamun had taken over public pathways. Some shopkeepers also encroached on footpaths to display their goods, while others were found selling counterfeit Kesar, Shilajit, or expired dry fruits. Unauthorized street masseurs were also contributing to the nuisance, especially on Mall Road.

While earlier enforcement efforts temporarily cleared the area, the lack of regular monitoring allowed vendors to return. To address this, MC president Manoj Large announced a special initiative called Swachhata Prahari aimed at restoring cleanliness and order in Manali.

He shared that MC teams recently inspected Mall Road, removing mobile hawkers selling balloons, paan, cigarettes, and toys. Unauthorized masseurs were also evicted. Four children found selling balloons were rescued and handed over to the ChildLine Team for care and protection.

Large added that vendors selling Golgappas and paan were issued strict warnings and evacuated, with clear orders not to return. “If they are found operating again, their goods will be confiscated and legal action will be taken,” he stated. He also urged hawkers to reduce the use of disposable plates and cups to limit environmental pollution.

Residents have welcomed the move and called for continued vigilance. Bharat Thakur, a Gompa Road resident, suggested establishing a helpline for reporting encroachments and littering. With public support growing, the MC, along with local police and the administration, is expected to sustain strict enforcement to ensure Manali remains clean, safe, and tourist-friendly.

Himachal Tribune