By Amrit Pal Sidhu / Babushahi Networks
Bathinda 13 May 2026
Bathinda, a prominent city in Punjab, has recently witnessed a public demonstration led by social service organizations against the growing problem of illegal rehris (street carts) and slums. These encroachments, which have been a long-standing issue, are now drawing significant attention due to their environmental and social impact on the city.
On a recent day, with the support of the Municipal Corporation Bathinda, these organizations took action by removing slum huts that had been set up near the lakes of the city.
Gurvinder Sharma, one of the key voices in this movement, highlighted the concerning situation of slum dwellers occupying spaces under major roads and bridges. He pointed out that these encroachments not only disrupt the city's aesthetics but also contribute to environmental pollution, as some residents defecate and bathe openly on the streets.
The issue extends beyond sanitation concerns. The illegal occupation of roads and canal banks by stalls and street vendors has led to significant traffic disruptions. Commuters face daily challenges navigating through congested areas, which further aggravate public frustration.
Advocate Lovejeet Singh expressed disappointment over the lack of action by authorities, despite directives from the Punjab and Haryana High Court issued a few years ago. The court had mandated the formation of citizen committees to address such issues, yet no substantial progress has been made. According to Lovejeet Singh, this negligence has forced social workers and activists to take matters into their own hands.
The protestors are now demanding immediate intervention from the District Administration and Municipal Corporation. Their primary demand is the removal of illegal encroachments within the city as well as along the canal banks. They argue that restoring public spaces and ensuring proper urban planning are essential for Bathinda's development and for maintaining a cleaner, more organized environment.
This demonstration serves as a wake-up call for local authorities to address the growing concerns of residents and activists. With consistent efforts and collaboration among all stakeholders, Bathinda can work towards resolving these issues and reclaiming its public spaces for the benefit of all citizens.