Pollution Hotspot Anand Vihar Still Jammed By Encroachments; Police Action Missing

Despite being designated a major pollution hotspot, Anand Vihar continues to grapple with severe encroachment and traffic congestion, even after clear directives from the pollution control committee to address the issue. On Thursday, a high-level committee formed on the instructions of the Chief Secretary had inspected the Anand Vihar area. 

Following the inspection, Shahdara’s Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (ADCP) Neha Yadav had directed Patparganj Industrial Area Station House Officer (SHO) Satyaprakash to clear encroachments around the Anand Vihar bus terminus.

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However, an on-ground visit by Dainik Jagran on Friday revealed little to no change. While Municipal Corporation sprinkler tankers were spraying water and road repair work was underway inside the bus terminus, the encroachments remained untouched. From the foot-over bridge to the entrance and exit of the bus terminus and railway station, hawkers and illegal stalls continued to occupy public space, causing regular traffic jams.

Residents and commuters expressed frustration, stating that despite repeated inspections and directions, no tangible action is taken. Pedestrians complained that even the small foot-over bridge near the bus terminus is encroached upon, making movement difficult. “Officials who come for inspections should try crossing the road here to understand the actual situation,” said a commuter.

Attempts to reach ADCP Neha Yadav for clarification went unanswered, even after photos of the encroachments were sent to her via WhatsApp. Sources in the area allege that some encroachers pay local police officials, which discourages enforcement.

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At the railway station exit, the situation is equally chaotic, with illegal food, shoe, and clothing stalls causing frequent traffic snarls lasting up to 10 minutes. The Anand Vihar Railway Police claimed they are often prevented from taking action by officers from the Anand Vihar Industrial Area police station, who assert that the matter falls outside their jurisdiction.

The ground reality stands in sharp contrast to official claims that coordinated efforts are underway to curb pollution and decongest hotspot areas. Despite multiple inspections and directives, encroachments persist, exposing a glaring lack of coordination and accountability among the authorities.