Sir: Illegal encroachments on streets and sidewalks have created many problems for motorists, commuters and pedestrians alike. Encroachments have become a persistent problem in the urban life of Pakistan. Every government tried to get rid of this menace but to no avail. The absence of political will has only added to the miseries of a common man. The concerned departments are least bothered about this issue. Traffic police do nothing to improve the situation, as in most cases the encroachers enjoy strong political backing. Moreover, black sheep in the police and city district administration are involved in collecting bhatta (extortion money) from the encroachers. Busy market areas including Empress Market and Regal Saddar have become a nightmare for motorists, commuters and pedestrians as 60 to 80 percent of streets and sidewalks are encroached upon illegally. Incidents of street crime are on the rise during traffic jams in various areas of the city including Saddar. I request the administration to clear the streets and sidewalks of Karachi of illegal encroachments to give the city a civilised urban face.SIDRA QAISARKarachi