NMC Sets Monthly Footpath Clearance Target Amid Encroachment Crackdown Nagpur’s Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has intensified its efforts to combat footpath encroachments by setting a monthly target of 600km of clearance, with daily goals of 2km per zone. Deputy municipal commissioner Mangesh Khawale disclosed the directive to TOI, stating that each of the city’s 10 zones must clear 2km of footpaths daily. The initiative, launched under the supervision of municipal commissioner Vipin Itankar, will operate alongside routine anti-encroachment operations. The move comes amid persistent criticism over the failure to address illegal vendors and shopkeepers occupying public walkways. The challenge remains significant, as NMC estimates that nearly 4,500km of footpaths in Nagpur are under encroachment, with over half of these spaces currently occupied. Officials acknowledge that reclaimed areas often revert to encroachment within hours of eviction, undermining enforcement efforts. Recently, Itankar reprimanded enforcement teams for failing to prevent pedestrians from being forced onto roads despite over two months of a high-profile 100-day anti-encroachment drive. The new drive targets both temporary and permanent encroachments. Unauthorised vendors, including those selling vegetables, fruits, and food, frequently occupy footpaths, while shopkeepers also encroach by displaying merchandise outside their establishments, leaving little space for pedestrians. Enforcement teams are now instructed to impose penalties equivalent to 25% of the value of seized goods, in addition to confiscating the items. These directives were issued in compliance with Supreme Court orders mandating the preservation of public footpaths.#nagpur #nagpur_municipal_corporation #nmc #vipin_itankar #mangesh_khawale
