Footpaths on busy road encroached permanently by shopkeepers in Erode

The Corporation’s failure to take action against encroachers on the footpaths on both sides of Veterinary Hospital Road, near Gandhiji Road, over the last three years has led to shopkeepers erecting permanent rooftops and permanently occupying public space.

Under the Smart Cities Mission, the civic body developed the road at a cost of several crore, with footpaths on both sides and underground utility systems. However, textile traders and commercial establishments had encroached upon the footpaths and run their business regularly.

“Public money was spent to benefit shopkeepers, as pedestrians have no space to move on the footpaths,” said M. Kumaresan, a resident. He added that the available road space is used for unauthorised vehicle parking, making it difficult for pedestrians to use the road.

The footpaths on both sides were constructed to a width of 16 metres, while the remaining road space, which is less than 15 metres, is used for unauthorised parking and vehicle movement. During the day, even a car struggles to move on the road due to the limited space.

“The civic body cleared encroachments on major roads in the last two months, but the encroachments on this road have not been removed even once in the last three years,” said a motorist who faces difficulty crossing the stretch. The road connects State Bank Road and commercial streets in the city, and is busy throughout the day. “Yet, officials have allowed the encroachments to remain permanently,” said another motorist P. Vadivel.

Motorists and pedestrians have expressed frustration over the 300-metre stretch that remains congested, and they have questioned the civic body for failure to take action against encroachers.

Published - December 16, 2024 07:08 pm IST