A notice on a metal sheet in Abul Fazal Enclave’s Puli Pulia has become the talk of the area. A resident spotted it a few days ago in the early morning. The notice warns that “action will be taken against all businesses operating illegally on the open nallah”.
Two residents discussed the possible consequences. One supported the move. He said residents and traders had taken over the entire stretch as if it were their own land. He added that strict action was necessary.
The notice in Hindi, dated August 29, reads: “Through this notice, you are informed that illegal businesses, including wood and metal work, are being run on the land of the Delhi-based Irrigation Department, Uttar Pradesh, at Abul Fazal Enclave’s open nallah. All such businesses must be stopped and removed within one week under any circumstances. Otherwise, you will be held personally responsible for any damage or consequences that may arise. Agra Nahar Colony, Okhla.”
It is not known what action will be taken as seven-day notice period is over. A resident said it might be a warning to a few businesses who run metal and wood work near pilli pulia.
Walk across the nallah, and you will see the reality. Workshops, shops, and eateries have occupied the service lane. Some have even encroached on the open nallah.
Encroachment in Okhla is a major issue.
Residents said shopkeepers and workshops have occupied not only the nallah but also the busy Hri Kothi road. This causes hardship for commuters and often leads to traffic jams. One resident welcomed the anti-encroachment notice, saying such action is needed. “Roads should never be used for business purposes,” he said. Besides, many workshops, eateries and businessmen occupy the road illegally. Residents also park their vehicles on the roadside, making it even narrower.
A shopkeeper said another problem is people extending their ladders onto the road, occupying government land. “Many eateries have placed tables and chairs on the nallah and taken over the service lane, making it hard for residents to even walk. The bigger issue is that these shopkeepers earn huge profits by encroaching on the road, yet they neglect the area. It is common to see some among them dumping food waste on the road,” said Noushu Ali.
Residents firmly believe that strict action must be taken against encroachers. They want penalties for those who park their vehicles on roadsides and for workshops, businesses and eateries that misuse public space. They said such people are playing a negative role in ruining the area and causing hardship for common residents.
