Shri Hari Kallikkat, IAS, Secretary, State Agricultural Marketing Board, Chandigarh, along with Shri Paviter Singh, PCS, Administrator, Market Committee, Chandigarh, conducted a surprise inspection of the Sector-26 Mandi, Chandigarh, to review the prevailing issues and assess on-ground conditions.

During the visit, the officers undertook a comprehensive tour of the Mandi and reviewed critical concerns related to sanitation and unauthorized encroachments. The condition of cleanliness and the presence of illegal vendors were flagged as major areas of concern and were discussed in detail during the inspection.

The officers also held discussions with Shri Mohit Sood, President, Grain Market Welfare Association, Shri Kasturi Lal Sharma, General Secretary, Arihant Vegetable Arhati Association, and other key stakeholders. Emphasizing collaborative efforts, the officers called for coordinated action between the Administration and Mandi associations to ensure sustainable improvement in infrastructure and hygiene.

Observing the presence of unauthorized vendors and lapses in cleanliness, the officers directed immediate corrective measures. Show cause notices have been issued to staff members found negligent in performing their duties. Strict instructions were given for the prompt removal of all encroachments and for strengthening sanitation practices in the Mandi.

Following the inspection, an encroachment removal drive was jointly conducted by the Market Committee staff and the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh. Illegal encroachments, including unauthorized jhuggies near the Bardana Market, Sector-26, were removed, and approximately 13 illegal rehris were seized as part of the ongoing campaign to reclaim public spaces.

The Administrator of the Market Committee stated that all possible steps are being taken to enhance the conditions of the Mandi. These include the installation of dustbins and awareness flex banners to promote cleanliness, conducting regular meetings with stakeholders and allied departments, and bringing in new bye-laws to enforce sanitation norms and prevent illegal vending and encroachments in the Mandi premises.