Siliguri, 23rd December: Tension prevailed at Seth Srilal Market in Siliguri following allegations that a parking area earmarked for the market was encroached upon and fenced off by an individual, triggering strong resentment among local residents and traders.
According to sources, an illegal portion of a building owned by Ishwar Mittal was demolished by the Siliguri Municipal Corporation a few months ago. It is now alleged that the same individual subsequently encroached upon the market’s designated parking space and enclosed the entire area with tin sheets. This allegedly led to the closure of an alternative road used by locals.
The matter was reportedly brought to the notice of the municipal corporation, the market committee, and the local ward councillor several months ago. Although civic body officials had visited the site earlier and work was temporarily halted, the area was later once again fenced off with tin sheets.
On Tuesday, local traders along with the ward councillor visited the site and directed the owner to remove the alleged illegal fencing. The ward councillor claimed that despite repeated complaints to the municipal authorities, no effective action has been taken so far. He cautioned that if the encroachment is not removed within a stipulated time, it would be dismantled by them.
Meanwhile, Mayor Gautam Deb said that discussions had been held with the building owner, who had sought time and was granted the same.
However, no steps were taken even after that period. He assured that the Siliguri Municipal Corporation would take necessary action shortly.
No response was available from the building owner at the time of report.