Company employees remove obstructions on the pedestrian platforms of Karur Bypass Road in Tiruchi. | Photo credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

The Tiruchi Corporation has launched an initiative to remove illegal encroachments on pedestrian platforms along major commercial roads in all five zones of the city.

Sidewalks and drains on some of the city’s main roads are encroached upon by commercial establishments and restaurants. Shopkeepers have put up hoardings and advertising boards on the sidewalks, and some even display their products, forcing pedestrians to walk on the road, causing traffic congestion, especially during rush hours.

The pavements and carriageways are also used by mobile food stalls serving their customers. They often park their vehicles on the road, occupying a portion of the pedestrian path. The problem has become acute on several roads including Karur Bypass, Salai Road, Sastri Road and Pattabiraman Salai, Thanjavur Road, Puthur High Road, Vayalur Road, West Boulevard Road and Singarathope.

Following complaints from residents and road safety activists, the civic body intensified its crackdown on encroachments to make space for pedestrians. Advertisement hoardings and banners of shops were removed from Karur Bypass and adjoining areas on Friday.

Hoardings are removed from pedestrian platforms on Karur Bypass Road in Tiruchi. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

The city administration had previously launched an investigation to determine encroachments on streets and sidewalks. Notices were sent to property owners to remove encroachments on the platforms that hinder pedestrian traffic.

Despite the sustained efforts of the civic administration, the encroachers returned to their site within a few days. “Encroachers on platforms pose a safety hazard to pedestrians and motorists. Authorities should take strict action against shopkeepers who misuse public space,” said N. Jamaludeen, a citizen activist.

A senior city official said: “Clearance operations to remove obstacles on the sidewalks will be intensified in the coming days. The commercial streets will be monitored and violators will be punished.”