Illegal e-rickshaws and encroachers had hard times on Wednesday. In a drive launched days ahead of Independence Day, Jamia Nagar Police seized several illegal e-rickshaws plying on Batla House roads. As words spread in the area of the crackdown, many e-rickshaw drivers were seen fleeting to safety.
“If you see any e-rickshaw without a number plate catch it and bring it to the police station. We will continue this drive here for another half an hour. The drive is against those without number plates,” said Jamia Nagar SHO Narpal Singh Yadav.
E-rickshaws operating without number plates or valid permissions were targeted.
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The operation was carried out by the local police in coordination with the Samaj Sudhar Trust team. Police officers could be seen forming a perimeter and diverting rickshaws towards Muradi Road to manage the flow.
A resident who was present during the action said: “You can see how e-rickshaws are being rounded up especially those without number plates.”
Also action was taken against encroachers. A resident said all the encroachment has been removed which is a welcome move and should be permanent not temporary.
Many local residents welcomed the action, expressing concern over the unchecked rise in illegal rickshaws and encroachments which have long disrupted daily life in the area.
“This is a commendable move by Jamia Nagar police. The way they are addressing the problems people face while commuting is appreciated,” said one local, pointing to how unauthorised rickshaws contribute to persistent traffic jams.
“There are many illegal rickshaws without number plates or permits operating here. Because of them, roads get blocked and people struggle to move. The police are doing excellent work there should be no doubt or suspicion about this action,” said Shagheer Abbasi.
Another resident weighed in on the possible impact on livelihoods.
Hafeez Rehan, another local, acknowledged that while e-rickshaws are essential for transport in the area, their regulation is necessary.
“This area is large, and there’s no other means of transportation within. So removing e-rickshaws entirely isn’t the solution. But they should be operated in a manner that doesn’t cause inconvenience to the public.”
He added, “The question is not about removing livelihoods but about organizing them so that traffic and safety aren’t compromised.”
Locals noted a significant difference in the area following the crackdown on Wednesday. Roads that were previously jammed with stalls and unauthorised vehicles were visibly clear, providing smoother commutes for schoolchildren and pedestrians.
“Earlier, this intersection used to be completely choked with traffic,” said a volunteer. “But now, it’s visibly clear. Even schoolchildren are finding it easier to move around.”
The operation is part of a larger city-wide initiative to ensure safety and order in public spaces ahead of the Independence Day celebrations. Officers confirmed that the drive will continue until August 15.
Yasir Khan, associated with the ‘Do Roti Bank’ initiative in Batla House, also voiced his support for the campaign.
“I’m known in Batla House because of the Do Roti Bank. Today, the police are visible on the streets addressing encroachment issues. There’s been too much of it lately. Yes, livelihoods are important, but when ambulances can’t pass and the general public suffers, something must be done. This campaign is needed and should continue.”
