It is worth mentioning that the entire stretch from the Fountain Chowk to Nabha Gate has been illegally occupied by shopkeepers.

Interestingly, the scooter and car mechanics repair vehicles on either side of the road.

While a traffic cop has been deputed near the market but lack of parking space adds to the woes of commuters.

To just make things hazardous for commuters, dhabas have placed their cooking gas in the open. “In the afternoon, the dhabas are full to capacity and the dhabas owners serve food on the road,” said Sarabjit Singh, who works in a nearby bank.

“This is a part of our shop and we are paying the MC officials for this every month”, said a shopkeeper, who accused the MC officials of accepting bribes. “Even if we are not paying, it is our government,” echoed another shopkeeper.

Patiala Mayor Ajit Pal Singh Kohli said he is aware of the problem and illegal encroachments will be vacated soon. “We have directed officials in this regard and safety of the residents is our priority”, he assured.

But the MC officials claim that they have tried to remove encroachments a number of times but the land is encroached again once the squad leaves the place.