DNCC warns of tougher action if footpaths are reoccupied

Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) Administrator Shafiqul Islam Khan on Thursday said the ongoing drive to clear footpaths of illegal occupation in Mirpur would continue and become stronger if the cleared areas were reoccupied.

“Footpaths designated for public movement will be kept open. There is no concession in dealing with attempts to reoccupy the footpaths,” he said.

The DNCC administrator made the remarks during a views exchange meeting with local residents while visiting Mirpur-10 to inspect the site of Wednesday’s eviction drive.

During the visit, local residents came out onto the streets and welcomed the DNCC initiative. They urged the administrator to continue the operation and ensure that Mirpur-10 remained permanently free from illegal occupation.

Earlier, Shafiqul Islam Khan visited the residence of journalist Sifat at West Shewrapara, who was injured during a clash during Wednesday’s drive.

He inquired about the journalist’s physical condition and expressed sympathy on behalf of the city corporation.

Calling the attack on the journalist “extremely unfortunate”, the DNCC administrator said the city corporation had always stood by journalists and would continue to do so.

He said the eviction drive against illegal occupation would never stop, while specific and constructive suggestions concerning the drive and street vendors would be considered.

Regarding the rehabilitation of street vendors, Shafiqul Islam Khan said arrangements had been made to provide them with business opportunities at alternative locations following discussions with them and with their consent.

Under the arrangement, 204 registration cards had been issued to enable the vendors to operate at the alternative locations.

However, he said the vendors had not complied with the decision and were again attempting to set up shops illegally at the same location. “Street vendors will certainly do business, but not by occupying footpaths meant for public movement and causing public sufferings. They must run their businesses at the designated locations,” he said.

Responding to journalists’ questions, the administrator said necessary measures would be taken in any area under DNCC jurisdiction to ensure civic services and reduce public suffering in accordance with city corporation rules and laws.

“Operations will be conducted at any time to ensure the unhindered movement of citizens,” he said, brushing aside claims that his party leaders and activists were involved in such activities.

He said every illegal structure would be removed from areas under DNCC jurisdiction in the public interest and on ethical grounds.

Trees would subsequently be planted in those areas to make the capital greener, cleaner and more orderly, he said.

The DNCC administrator also called on local residents to cooperate with the eviction team in carrying out the operation.