Hawkers block Shahbagh footpaths, forcing pedestrians onto roads

Hawkers have occupied most of the footpaths at the entrances to BIRDEM General Hospital and the Shahbagh Metro Rail Station, forcing pedestrians onto busy roads and raising serious safety concerns.

The number of makeshift stalls has steadily increased in recent weeks, with vendors taking up almost the entire width of the sidewalks and leaving little space for people to walk.

The encroachment has become a daily hardship for patients visiting BIRDEM, their attendants, metro rail passengers and other pedestrians, many of whom are compelled to use the carriageway, increasing the risk of road accidents.

Shahbagh, one of the capital’s busiest intersections, accommodates thousands of people every day seeking medical treatment, using public transport or travelling through the area.

Residents and commuters said the growing occupation of footpaths has severely disrupted safe and convenient pedestrian movement and called for immediate action to clear the sidewalks and restore public access.