Crackdown on Roadside Businesses: Pune Police Take Action Against Encroachments

Pune, 26th August 2024: In a decisive move to address traffic congestion, Pune’s traffic police have issued notices to 156 roadside businesses, including eateries, garages, and florists, as well as malls and multiplexes, over the past three weeks. The establishments were instructed to remove portions of their structures that encroach on public roads.

“We’ve issued notices to these establishments, directing them to clear their encroachments from the roadway and avoid obstructing vehicular traffic. Should they fail to comply, we are prepared to take legal action under Section 285 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which deals with danger or obstruction in public pathways or navigation routes,” stated Manoj Patil, Additional Commissioner of Police.

Patil revealed that a complaint has already been registered against one violator. He further mentioned, “We’ve advised larger establishments, like malls and multiplexes, to hire wardens to manage traffic in front of their premises. The movement of vehicles entering and exiting these facilities often leads to traffic snarls.”

The issue, according to Patil, stems from certain businesses operating on footpaths or adjacent areas. “Garages, in particular, have their customers park vehicles on the road for repairs, while motorists visiting roadside eateries and florists tend to park on the road while dining or shopping. This results in traffic congestion, especially during peak hours,” he explained.

Patil also noted that the focus will gradually extend to smaller yet critical roads across the city. “At present, we’ve warned these establishments and individuals to refrain from encroaching on public routes, which contribute to traffic jams and accidents,” he added.