Patna: The administration in Patna has announced a fresh campaign to remove encroachments from around Patna Junction and Hathua Market, two of the busiest locations in the city. The move came after a review meeting held on Wednesday under the chairmanship of Animesh Kumar Parashar. Officials said the operation will focus on clearing roads, footpaths and public spaces that have become blocked due to illegal occupation, causing daily traffic jams and inconvenience for commuters.
During the meeting, the divisional commissioner directed district officials and civic agencies to begin immediate action. He also raised concern over reports that some anti-social groups in the Hathua Market area had occupied public land and were allegedly collecting money from people through illegal means. Strict instructions were given to identify those involved and take strong legal action. Senior officers from the district administration, police, transport department and municipal corporation were asked to work together to ensure the campaign is carried out without delay.
The administration said traffic around Patna Junction will be managed more strictly from now on. Auto-rickshaws will not be allowed to park in front of Buddha Smriti Park, and all available facilities at the existing multi-modal transport hub will be used to shift traffic away from crowded roads. Officials said illegal halting of autos and e-rickshaws on roads will not be allowed anywhere in the city. They added that joint drives will continue to remove encroachments and prevent roadside congestion, especially near the railway station and market areas.
Authorities also said CCTV cameras will be used more actively to monitor illegal parking, wrong-side driving and repeat encroachments. Vehicles parked in restricted areas will be seized, including those left on roads for sale. Footpaths on important roads such as Ashok Rajpath, Nehru Path and Gandhi Maidan will also be kept clear for pedestrians. Officials said the administration is considering multi-level parking and designated auto stands in future to reduce pressure on major intersections and improve traffic across the city.
