Dhanbad: Dhanbad appears to be facing renewed encroachment, with makeshift shops and illegal establishments occupying roadsides and public spaces. Unauthorised roadside businesses have caused congestion in several areas, particularly on the road leading to IIT (ISM). Poultry and fish shops have also allegedly emerged near the police lines.President Droupadi Murmu had visited IIT (ISM) Dhanbad on August 1, 2025, to attend its 45th convocation. Ahead of her visit, the district administration and Dhanbad Municipal Corporation had undertaken a cleanliness and beautification drive, including painting public walls with murals and messages on govt welfare schemes. A year later, the city appears to have slipped back into encroachment.Officials had assured residents that the city’s improved appearance would be maintained after President Murmu’s departure. Dhanbad municipal commissioner Ashish Gangwar said the civic body was taking steps to make the city encroachment-free. Teams are conducting drives in different areas, he said, adding that the road leading towards IIT (ISM) would also soon be cleared of encroachments.Messages about welfare schemes and govt initiatives are now barely visible behind stalls and roadside structures.Residents said the situation reflects the lack of sustained monitoring after temporary beautification drives. They questioned why encroachments are allowed to return despite repeated assurances from officials.
