The railway administration of Pune division has taken strict action against illegal and unauthorised hawkers for installing stalls and selling goods and materials within the limits of the railway stations.
During a special week-long crackdown by Railway Protection Force (RPF) from May 15 to 21, a total of 266 illegal hawkers were caught red-handed for operating without valid licences.
Hemant Behera, Divisional Commercial Manager of the Pune division, highlighted that the drive aimed to curb unauthorised commercial activities at railway stations.
"The action has been taken under Section 144 of the Railways Act, 1989. Additionally, those found violating the law will have to face penalties of Rs 2000 and imprisonment of up to 1 year, or both. The detained individuals have been presented in the dedicated code for legal proceedings," he said.
"We appeal to the vendors to take necessary permission before engaging in any business activities on railway properties. The drive will continue in the future to keep the railway stations safer," he added.
Behera further said that the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) needs to take regular action against illegal hawkers near the railway stations for smooth traffic flow.
