No compromise with passenger convenience, cleanliness and safety in Haryana: Minister

Haryana Transport Minister Anil Vij has directed bus stands across the state to prevent encroachments and ensure better facilities for passengers, with strict action against illegal activities.

Haryana Transport Minister Anil Vij on Monday said that no obstruction in passenger movement, cleanliness or safety at bus stands across the state will be tolerated.

Ensuring strict action against illegal encroachments, additional counters, hawkers and unauthorised activities at bus stands, Vij said that all Haryana bus stands have been directed to prevent encroachments and ensure better facilities for passengers.

According to an official statement, the Director General of the Transport Department has issued these directions to all General Managers of Haryana Roadways in compliance with those given during a recent meeting chaired by the Transport Minister.

Reiterating strict action against illegal occupations and unauthorised activities at bus stands, Vij said these places are for public convenience, and hindrances affecting passenger movement, cleanliness or safety will not be tolerated.

According to the directions issued, no shopkeeper, vendor or any other person will be allowed to encroach upon platforms, roads, footpaths, waiting areas or any public space at bus stands.

Shop-related materials such as racks, refrigerators, crates, tables, benches, and signboards will be permitted only within the allotted area. However, temporary stalls, hawkers, unauthorised vendors and additional counters outside shops are prohibited.

Shopkeepers have also been instructed not to create any obstruction in the movement of passengers, buses, emergency vehicles or sanitation activities.

Calling for strict action against those installing unauthorised electrical appliances or illegal electricity connections, Vij directed the officials concerned to ensure regular inspections and report any encroachment or violation to higher authorities.

The minister said that action will be taken against violators, with immediate removal of encroachments. If required, penalties, cancellation of shop allotments, sealing of shops and confiscation of goods may also be carried out according to the rules.