Mohali MC Cracks Down On Illegal Street Vendors | Over 70 tandoors, 80 LPG stoves, 200 LPG cylinders, 200 handcarts: MC offices, godowns overflow with seized goods

“About 200 LPG cylinders have been confiscated so far. In addition, more than 200 handcarts, including makeshift and illegally modified carts, have been impounded. The situation has reached a point where the municipal corporation’s stores and godowns are full, and there is hardly any space left even inside the MC buildings to keep the seized items,” Mandeep Singh added.

Mandeep Singh said municipal teams had been conducting regular raids in major markets, roads and public places to remove unauthorised encroachments. As some vendors protested the action, officials said illegal vending on public roads hampers traffic flow, obstructs pedestrian movement and creates sanitation issues.

When contacted, Municipal Commissioner Parminder Pal Singh said there was no shortage of space to store the seized material. “There is no lack of storage facilities or buildings with the government. This drive will continue uninterrupted. As long as illegal encroachments keep resurfacing despite repeated removals, strict action will also continue,” he said.

The Commissioner clarified that earlier, seized items were returned after the payment of a fine, and vendors would often return to the same spots.“Strict action is being taken now, and confiscated goods will not be returned. Designated vending zones are being planned to accommodate vendors operating legally,” he added.

Appealing to the public for cooperation, the Commissioner said the sustained drive was aimed at keeping the city organised, clean and free from traffic congestion.