Two DSCC drives clear road and footpaths from Gulistan Zero Point to Dhaka Trade Centre

The Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) has again evicted hawkers occupying roads and footpaths at Gulistan in the capital. The drives were carried out in two rounds on Thursday (29 October), at 11am and at 3:30pm, from Gulistan Zero Point to the Dhaka Trade Centre.

During the drives, shops set up by occupying the main road and footpaths were removed and goods were seized. Officials involved said the entire road and footpath stretch from Zero Point to the Dhaka Trade Centre was cleared of occupation.

DSCC Administrator Bir Muktijoddha Md Abdus Salam took part in the operation. He made clear that whatever arguments or excuses are offered in favour of illegal footpath occupation, hawkers will not be allowed to sit on roads and footpaths under any circumstances.

Asked by journalists how hawkers keep returning despite repeated drives, the administrator said: “As many times as roads and footpaths are illegally occupied, we will conduct drives in the interest of city residents. We have taken every step — discussions, requests and warnings, many times. From now on, if anyone sits illegally, goods will be seized and, if necessary, legal action and arrests will follow.”

On complaints about eviction without rehabilitation, Abdus Salam said the Dhaka South City Corporation cannot take responsibility for displaced people from across the country. A fixed number of hawkers could be allowed to sit at designated places without obstructing public movement, while the rest would have to return to their own districts. “We have to save this Dhaka; there is no alternative,” he said.

Pedestrians present during the drive showed enthusiasm, expressed relief and thanked the administrator, asking for the drives to continue.