In Bareilly, authorities have taken a firm stance against encroachments, leading to the sealing of 38 shops. This action is part of an ongoing crackdown aimed at removing illegal structures and ensuring the free flow of traffic and pedestrian movement.

The recent operation was carried out by the municipal corporation on Bareilly Junction Road. The drive targeted shopkeepers who had allegedly extended their businesses onto the road, causing obstruction and inconvenience to the public. During the operation, there were instances of heated arguments between the shopkeepers and the निगम team. While some shopkeepers voluntarily removed their belongings, others resisted the action.

A revenue inspector, Sachchidanand Singh, led the team. Approximately ₹20,000 in fines was collected from those found violating the rules. News of the crackdown spread quickly, causing panic among shopkeepers in the nearby Indira Market, many of whom began removing their merchandise in anticipation of the team's arrival.

Municipal corporation officials have made it clear that the anti-encroachment drive will continue. Regular inspections will be conducted to maintain obstruction-free roads. This is not the first time Bareilly has witnessed such action. In February 2024, the Bareilly Development Authority (BDA) demolished five illegal colonies under construction in Zulfikar village near Pilibhit road. Similarly, action was taken against unlawful colonies being constructed along the Badaun Road in early February and near the Mahanagar Colony in January.

In 2016, a similar anti-encroachment drive was conducted by a joint team of the municipal corporation and Bareilly police. However, its impact was limited as many squatters returned to the cleared areas. Encroachments on footpaths and roads have been a persistent problem in Bareilly, leading to traffic congestion and difficulties for pedestrians.

Such drives are not without controversy. In 2016, the demolition of a religious place during an anti-encroachment drive by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) triggered tension in Fareedpur town. Members of a community gathered to protest, blocking the national highway and observing a shutdown.

The recent sealing of shops and the continuation of the anti-encroachment drive signal a renewed commitment by the authorities to address the issue of illegal encroachments in Bareilly. The aim is to create a more organized and accessible urban environment for all residents.