DC, SSP crack down on festive season encroachments in Jamshedpur markets

Shopkeepers in Sakchi Told to Clear Pavements or Face Rs 5,000 Fine

Festive Season Drive: Jamshedpur Traders Asked to Ensure Discipline in Markets

Jamshedpur: Shoppers in the steel city can look forward to a smoother festive season this year, with the East Singhbhum district administration stepping up efforts to ensure that pavements and market spaces remain free from encroachments.

In a bid to maintain order and prevent inconvenience to citizens, Deputy Commissioner Karn Satyarthi and Senior Superintendent of Police Piyush Pandey have begun conducting surprise inspections in the city’s busiest commercial hubs of Sakchi.

Issuing clear directives today, the administration warned shopkeepers against re-encroaching pavements and drains outside their establishments during the upcoming festive rush. Shopkeepers were instructed not to place stocks, banners, or festive offer display boards on pavements and roadsides, which have in the past created bottlenecks for both pedestrians and vehicles.

“The shopkeepers were clearly asked to maintain discipline and prevent discomfort for traffic and shoppers. If any shopkeeper is found indulging in such acts, they should be ready to face penalty,” said Deputy Commissioner Satyarthi, stressing that free movement and public convenience must remain a priority during festive shopping.

Reinforcing the warning, a senior administrative official, informed that any violation of the order would invite a fine of up to Rs 5,000, to be levied by JNAC officials. “Strict enforcement will be carried out, and repeated offenders will face sterner action,” he added.

While traders assured the administration of full cooperation, they also raised concerns regarding parking facilities. “We expressed our willingness to abide by the directives of the administration but highlighted the difficulties faced due to lack of dedicated parking spaces in market areas. This problem affects both shopkeepers and customers. We have also expressed our reservations about anomalies in parking charges, which often create disputes,” said Ajay Moonka, a Sakchi-based trader who participated in the meeting with officials.

The administration has assured that the issues raised by the business community will be reviewed, with a special focus on rationalising parking tariffs and exploring additional parking spaces to ease congestion. Officials emphasised that the joint efforts of traders, citizens, and the administration would be key to ensuring a hassle-free and disciplined festive season in the city’s markets.