Ludhiana, Feb. 12 -- Encroachment has emerged as a major civic concern at Focal Point where significant portions of a key road have been occupied on both sides, severely reducing the carriageway and disrupting the smooth movement of traffic. The situation has led to inconvenience for commuters, shopkeepers and pedestrians who use the busy industrial stretch daily.

On one side of the road, single-room makeshift structures have been erected, while on the other, household belongings and temporary arrangements have been placed along the roadside. The narrowing of the road has created bottlenecks, particularly during peak hours.

Santosh, a commuter who frequently travels through the area, said the encroachment has made movement uncomfortable...