Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Administrator Abdus Salam has declared that the entire thoroughfare from Gulistan to Sadarghat in the capital will be kept completely free of encroachment, stating that street vendors will not be allowed to set up stalls anywhere along this route. He warned that if any vendor occupies roads and footpaths outside designated areas, their goods will be confiscated and they may face arrest if necessary.
The DSCC administrator made these remarks while talking to reporters on Wednesday during an eviction drive in the capital's Gulistan area. Earlier, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, the corporation conducted a robust eviction drive in the areas adjacent to the Dhaka Trade Center and Fulbaria Super Market in Gulistan.
During the drive, over a hundred illegal shops and makeshift structures built by occupying footpaths were dismantled. Heavy machinery, including pay-loaders, was deployed to demolish the unauthorized structures, while various goods and equipment were seized.
Speaking during the operation, Administrator Abdus Salam noted that specific footpaths, night markets, and holiday markets have already been designated for street vendors, and they are expected to operate exclusively within those authorized zones. He emphasized that the main roadway from Gulistan to Sadarghat, in particular, will be maintained in a completely clear state, with no street vendors permitted on the primary roads under any circumstances.
Addressing the persistent issue of vendors reoccupying roads and footpaths following previous evictions, the administrator stated that vendors have been warned through various channels and meetings with vendor association leaders have been held on multiple occasions. Despite these measures, cleared spaces are repeatedly reoccupied, leaving no alternative but to pursue strict legal action.
Abdus Salam reiterated that violating these rules will result in the seizure of goods and potential arrests. He affirmed that regular eviction drives will continue to ensure that public roads and footpaths remain free from unauthorized occupation.
