Dhaka:For years, walking along Dhaka’s busy streets meant navigating through crowded pavements, makeshift shops, and food stalls, or stepping onto traffic-filled roads to reach a destination. Footpaths intended for pedestrians had gradually turned into marketplaces, leaving little room for safe movement and adding to the capital’s traffic congestion.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, authorities in Dhaka are now actively clearing illegal occupations, restoring footpaths for pedestrians, and introducing greenery and beautification projects to create a cleaner, safer, and more liveable city. The transformation is notably visible in Mirpur, where the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) has reclaimed footpaths in several busy locations, including Shah Ali Market, Sony Cinema Hall intersection, and the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium area.
The Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) is also making strides by clearing illegal occupations from footpaths in key areas such as Gulistan, Motijheel, and New Market. To enhance these areas, flowerpots and ornamental plants have been placed to discourage renewed occupation. The DSCC is pursuing an ambitious urban greening program, having planted over 230,000 trees along roads, intersections, and in parks and educational institutions.
DSCC Administrator Md Abdus Salam emphasized the importance of these initiatives in improving the urban environment and promoting pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. He warned that illegal occupation of roads and footpaths would not be tolerated and that further violations could result in eviction drives, confiscation of goods, and legal action.
Urban planners assert that accessible footpaths and adequate greenery are essential for a modern, liveable city. Reclaiming pavements allows for safe pedestrian movement, while organized greenery contributes to environmental balance. However, the challenge remains in sustaining these improvements through regular monitoring and maintenance.