Beware of displaying items outside shops

 With Diwali just round the corner, the markets are already buzzing with shoppers.
However, the shopkeepers putting their products on display outside their shops on footpaths and on the roads outside their shop are up for trouble as Delhi Police have decided to book such shopkeepers this festive season who encroach upon the areas outside their shops.

Delhi Police issued an advisory on Saturday in the wake of security and traffic arrangements during the festive season.

Cops said legal action would be taken against the defaulters. “These encroachments are an impediment to smooth flow of traffic and can put human life to peril. The market associations have been requested to advise shopkeepers not to extend the display of their goods beyond the shop. Any contravention of police directions shall invite legal action,” said a police official.

Traffic inspectors have been advised to report to local police or senior department officials in case they come across such violations under their jurisdiction.

“We would ensure that the footpaths and roads remain free from such encroachments for movement of pedestrians and smooth flow of traffic,” said Satyendra Garg, joint commissioner of police (traffic).

Last month, Delhi traffic police had instructed all religious committees celebrating Durga Puja and Ramlila in the city to ensure that no gates or obstructive structures are placed on roads leading to the puja pandals or celebration sites.

According to traffic cops, such structures are not only obstructive for commuters but can be a serious handicap for emergency services in case of mishap.