Vinay Kumar
Darjeeling: Darjeeling Municipality intensified its crackdown on encroachments in designated no-vending zones, serving eviction notices on hawkers operating along Nehru Road and adjoining stretches leading to Chowrasta (Mall Road) and Toong Soong. The move comes as part of the state’s ongoing anti-encroachment campaign to clear public spaces, ensure pedestrian movement and address safety concerns in key tourist areas during the peak season.Notices were issued on Thursday, directing hawkers to immediately remove their stalls from the no-vending zones. Municipal officials followed up with an inspection drive on Friday evening to check compliance. The road linking Nehru Road with Chowrasta and Toong Soong has seen a rise in makeshift stalls in recent months, with large portions of pedestrian space being occupied. With tourist footfall increasing, the stretch remains crowded through the day, causing congestion for visitors and residents.The Gorkha Janmukti Morcha, an ally of the BJP, has sought temporary relief for 38 hawkers, arguing that their families depend on seasonal tourist business. In a letter to the municipal chairman, GJM central spokesperson Binita Roka said, “In particular, 38 hawkers are now engaged in such livelihood activities along Nehru Road. However, following a recent govt directive, the concerned hawkers have been instructed to discontinue their business and a notice to this effect was issued by the municipality on Thursday.”The letter further appealed that these hawkers be granted temporary permission to continue operating their shops from 8 pm to 10 pm till June-end.The municipality has refused to dilute the drive, maintaining that no-vending zones and public safety cannot be compromised. Thakuri said the action was not politically motivated and was being carried out under state govt directives. “If something happens, who will take responsibility? There have been incidents such as cylinder blasts. Public lanes have to be freed from encroachments. This drive is being conducted across the state and encroachments cannot be tolerated,” Thakuri said.He said over 200 hawkers are operating along Nehru Road, many using LPG cylinders to sell momos and other food items. “Since this is a major tourist destination, large crowds gather here every day. If an accident occurs, who will be responsible? Public lanes have to be freed from hawkers,” he said, adding that cleared areas were being reoccupied as tourist arrivals increased.Thakuri also questioned selective relaxation. “Thirty-eight hawkers have sought permission for twenty days. What about the others? There are more than 200 operating in the heart of Chowrasta. We cannot allow encroachments to return once public spaces have been cleared,” he said.Municipal Market superintendent Suman Sarki said most vendors had complied, but goods were seized from hawkers still selling maize in Toong Soong. “From Saturday, if violations continue, action will be taken strictly as per municipal rules and regulations,” Sarki said.
