LAGAWE, Ifugao, Nov. 21 (PIA) - - Local officials here approved an ordinance prohibiting and penalizing any person causing obstruction on streets, sidewalks, avenues, alleys, bridges, parks and other similar public places.

The "Anti-Street Obstruction Ordinance" aims to make all public roads and sidewalks safe and convenient for the use of pedestrian, to improve flow of traffic and to minimize illegal vendors on streets.

Sangguniang Bayan members of the explained noted that construction of illegal infrastructure along the public roads and placing of signages along easement in front of business establishment including those illegal vendors that are blocking pathways and affecting the flow of traffic are still continuing.

"To solve the pressing problem, the immediate formulation of an ordinance is necessary for the sake of the people of Lagawe and for the future," they stated.

Under the ordinance, it is prohibited to utilize public roads and sidewalks as shop, working area, warehouse, office or for any purpose related to the conduct of business; as garage or parking area for any types of motor vehicle; vending or selling of foods and reading materials and seeking of alms or solicitations.

"Tiange" shall be exempted provided that necessary permits have been obtained during fiestas, athletic meets, wedding and other special occasions.

Public roads and sidewalks should not be used also for the conduct of family gatherings/celebrations and drinking of intoxicating liquor; as storage of goods, construction and junk materials; as basketball court or playing area; drying of palay and construction of many humps.

Conduct of religious and community activities and holding of wake should be coordinated with the barangay council concerned and the traffic and parking management department of the municipal government.

All items, goods and structures found along roads, streets, avenues, alleys, sidewalks, bridges, parks and other public places will be confiscated by the Municipal Anti-criminality and General Services (MAGs) even without prior notice and be treated as common garbage.

Violators will be penalized accordingly.

Local government officials are tasked to sustain the presidential directive to clear roads and sidewalks from all obstructions. (JDP/MBL- PIA CAR, Ifugao)