Noida: Despite no-vending zones being set up, hawkers have been continuing to encroach on the footpaths in Sector 78, residents said.The situation worsens further every Wednesday during the weekly market in the area. “No-vending zones in front of Ved Van Park were established five years ago but it has been of no use. Vendors still occupy large portions of the footpaths and sometimes their carts even spill onto the main roads,” said Ranjan Samantaray, a local.On Wednesday, the weekly market is set up in front of the entrance to the nearby grouping societies, like Windsor Court, Hyde Park and Antriksh Golf View (1&2), forcing residents to navigate a bustling weekly market, said Samantaray, who lives in Antriksh Golf View 2 and has written to Noida Authority seeking redress for the matter.Several residents have urged the Authority that the market be shifted to the nearby service lane to keep the footpaths free and ensure smooth access to the housing societies.However, they say shifting the vendors is only a temporary solution. Lack of enforcement by the Authority has contributed to the issue continuing. “Despite multiple complaints and the presence of official no-vending zone signages, violations are rampant and continuous. It raises questions about the efficacy of monitoring and enforcement mechanisms in place. A no-vending zone cannot remain a board on a pole. It must be a rule enforced on the ground,” said another local resident.
The annual Ramlila fair has encroached on the footpaths in front of Mihir Bhoj Park, where regular visitors park their cars
A Noida Authority official said periodic demolition drives are carried out to remove encroachments in the 7x sectors.Meanwhile, in Greater Noida, residents said the annual Ramlila fair has occupied much of the Samrat Mihir Bhoj Park parking and many regular visitors are not being able to use the space. They said while the fair is a source of community entertainment, it should not come at the cost of accessibility for everyday patrons. Many are highlighting the need to find a balance between hosting events and maintaining accessibility for everyday visitors.“The fair has also encroached on the very entrance gate of the park. Forget about the sides, people cannot even park their vehicles in front of the gate during the morning. Several senior citizens come here with valid passes but are unable to enter the park,” said Aditya Bhati, a resident of Sector P3.A response from GNIDA is awaited on the issue.
