Over 100 illegal shops evicted in Gulistan; arrests to follow if re-occupied

Bangla Press Desk: The Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) has evicted over a hundred illegal stalls from the footpaths adjacent to the Dhaka Trade Center and Fulbaria Supermarket in the capital’s Gulistan area.

A stern warning has been issued: if the roads and footpaths are re-occupied in violation of the rules, the vendors’ goods will be confiscated, and the vendors themselves may face arrest.

The operation, led by four executive magistrates of the DSCC, took place on Wednesday between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.

During the drive, illegal structures were demolished using heavy machinery, and a large quantity of goods and equipment was seized. Over a hundred eviction personnel from the City Corporation, along with six platoons of police, participated in the operation.

Visiting the site, DSCC Administrator Md. Abdus Salam told reporters, “Specific footpaths, night markets, and holiday markets have been designated for hawkers; they are permitted to operate only in these areas. In particular, the entire stretch from Gulistan to Sadarghat will be kept completely clear, and hawkers will not be allowed to set up shop on the main roads under any circumstances.”

The Administrator noted that despite multiple meetings with leaders of hawker associations and repeated warnings, the footpaths were being re-occupied.

He stated, “Since they have returned to these spots even after being evicted, there is no alternative but to take strict legal action. Anyone who violates the rules and sets up shop will have their goods confiscated and may even face arrest.”

The eviction drive was conducted by DSCC’s Chief Property Officer Md. Rezaul Karim, Chief Revenue Officer Junaid Kabir Sohag, Property Officer Hasiba Khan, and Executive Magistrate Md. Aminul Islam.

In a press release, the DSCC stated that such operations will continue to ensure the unhindered movement of pedestrians.

BP/SP