Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Punjab Govt orders removal of scrapped and abandoned vehicles from city areas within 30 days
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, January 18, 2026:The Punjab Government, under the leadership of Local Government Minister Sanjeev Arora, has issued a comprehensive directive for the systematic removal and relocation of all scrapped, abandoned, unclaimed, and confiscated vehicles lying in police station premises and other government lands within city limits.
As part of wider urban governance reforms, the vehicles will be shifted to designated yards outside urban areas within 30 days. The move aims to improve public safety, sanitation, traffic management, and ensure better utilization of public infrastructure.
The Minister said joint teams of the Police Department, Municipal Corporations, Traffic Police, and District Administration have been directed to conduct an immediate survey, prepare a detailed inventory, and ensure time-bound implementation of the order.
Explaining the rationale behind the decision, Sanjeev Arora said that abandoned and confiscated vehicles within city limits pose serious fire hazards, create breeding grounds for mosquitoes and rodents, obstruct traffic, and degrade urban aesthetics. He added that police station premises are meant for operational use and public service, not long-term vehicle dumping.
The Minister clarified that the action is fully in line with the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989, Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, and the Punjab Municipal Corporation Act. All vehicles will be shifted only to authorized scrap yards and recycling facilities, strictly adhering to environmental and pollution control norms.
Before removal, vehicles will be tagged and photographed, notices will be affixed, and owners—where traceable—will be given an opportunity to claim them as per law. Confiscated vehicles will be relocated only after completion of mandatory legal procedures to ensure judicial processes remain unaffected.
Appealing for public cooperation, Sanjeev Arora urged vehicle owners to voluntarily resolve the status of abandoned vehicles with the concerned authorities.
“This initiative reflects the government’s firm commitment to safer, cleaner, and better-organized cities. Urban land is a valuable public resource and must be used efficiently for public welfare,” he said.