Encroachments by shopkeepers hamper pedestrian movement in Ganderbal

Despite repeated assurances from the administration regarding strict action against encroachers, shopkeepers and street vendors in the main market of central Kashmir's Ganderbal district continue to occupy footpaths and roads, causing significant difficulties for both vehicles and pedestrians.

As per the reports received by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), street vendors and shopkeepers have encroached upon footpaths in Main Town Ganderbal, stretching from Behaama Chowk to Duderhama Chowk.

Local residents expressed frustration, saying the random occupation of footpaths is leaving no space for pedestrians or moving vehicles on the town's main streets.

They said these encroachments not only mar the market's appearance but also make life unbearable for pedestrians. “Shopkeepers have illegally occupied footpaths to display their products, putting the lives of students and elders at risk. We are left with no option but to walk on the roads,” said commuters, expressing their concerns,” said a concerned resident Aijaz Ahmad.

Bilal Ahmad, a concerned resident, said, “Even pedestrians are forced to walk on the main road as footpaths have been occupied by shopkeepers and roadside vendors. This poses a serious risk, especially for the elderly, who are left with no choice but to navigate through heavy traffic. This also leads to frequent accidents.”

Despite ongoing awareness programmes in various parts of the valley, officials have allegedly failed to take action against these encroachments, leaving the problem unaddressed.

Commuters and residents alike have appealed to higher authorities for immediate intervention to remove encroachers from the footpaths. They have urged authorities to urgently address the issue