PESHAWAR: The district administration has intensified its massive anti-encroachment operation along Peshawar Ring Road, demolishing more than 950 shops, markets and other structures identified as illegal in an extensive campaign aimed at restoring public land, improving traffic flow and beautifying the provincial capital.
The operation is being conducted in coordination with the Peshawar Development Authority (PDA) and other relevant departments as authorities accelerate road restoration and infrastructure improvement efforts across the city.
Heavy machinery has been deployed to demolish unauthorized structures and clear public roads obstructed by encroachments.
Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government sources have alleged that certain houses along a section of Peshawar Ring Road had previously been protected from demolition through the political influence of PTI leader Mina Khan Afridi.
The sources further claimed that illegal constructions had expanded over the past 13 years, allegedly benefiting from political patronage and contributing to deteriorating road conditions.
However, these allegations have not been independently verified, and no response from Mina Khan Afridi was available in the information reviewed.
The administration believes that unauthorized construction has restricted available road space, increased congestion and created difficulties for commuters.
Officials have also been directed to prevent fresh encroachments on recovered government land and ensure that restoration measures produce lasting improvements.
Legal Concerns Emerge as Operation Continues
The campaign has also attracted legal scrutiny.
On November 3, the Peshawar High Court issued notices to authorities over petitions challenging demolitions allegedly carried out without prior notice. The court also restrained further action against the petitioners.
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The administration has maintained that its operation serves the public interest, while emphasizing its commitment to protecting public land and improving civic infrastructure.
The ongoing campaign represents a significant effort to modernize Peshawar’s road network, although its long-term success will depend on transparent implementation, compliance with legal requirements and effective prevention of future encroachments.
