Shimla MC likely to demolish encroachments on Mall Road

The MC wing has initiated the demarcation proceedings in view of the prima facie evidence on the spot that in this zone the rainwater drain — that runs through one end of Mall Road to the other — has allegedly been covered up by half a dozen shops and encroached upon in violation of rules. Nearly a dozen shops in this stretch have also reportedly encroached upon the public path of Mall Road.

In December 2010,the Shimla MC had demolished encroachment by Nalini restaurant on Mall Road,taking immediate cognizance of people’s complaints.

The restaurant had constructed a concrete platform by permanently covering up the rainwater drain. Construction of fresh structures in the core and heritage zone of Shimla is only allowed on the old lines,however many buildings that were given permission for renovation in the recent past have resorted to violations and encroachment on public paths in the heart of the town.

The Himachal Pradesh High Court had also pulled up Shimla Municipal Corporation in 2009 for closing its eyes towards encroachments on public paths and streets of Shimla that could pose a hazard to human lives in case of a disaster. However,the MC is yet to take action against permanent encroachments in alleys leading from Mall Road to Lower Bazaar — a congested market place — and in other parts of the town.