Chaos on Shopian streets as footpath encroachments go unchecked

Shopian, Nov 16: Residents and commuters in south Kashmir’s Shopian town say daily movement has become increasingly difficult as shopkeepers continue to occupy pavements and pedestrian walkways, forcing people to walk on the main roads amid rising traffic congestion.

Locals complain that shopkeepers routinely extend their merchandise onto footpaths, leaving little to no space for pedestrians. With traffic swelling during peak hours, residents say the situation turns hazardous, particularly for schoolchildren, women and the elderly who are compelled to navigate through the middle of busy roads.Several key stretches, including the main market area, remain perpetually choked due to the unchecked encroachments, residents said.

Mitha Gatoo, a social activist from Shopian, told Greater Kashmir that the town had “virtually turned into a maze.” He said shopkeepers had “taken over the footpaths,” creating unsafe conditions for pedestrians and contributing to frequent traffic jams. “We have raised this concern umpteen times, but to no avail,” he added.

According to Gatoo, occasional anti-encroachment drives by authorities offer only temporary relief, as shopkeepers return to occupying pavements within days.

Residents also criticised the administration for failing to enforce basic regulations designed to keep pedestrian walkways clear. “Without consistent monitoring and penalties, the problem is unlikely to be resolved,” said Ashiq Hussain, another resident.

Locals have urged the authorities to launch a sustained and strictly enforced anti-encroachment drive to restore pedestrian movement and ease congestion in the town’s busiest areas.