Dhaka:The Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) has announced that it will persist with its initiative to clear footpaths of illegal occupations, ensuring unhindered movement for city residents. DNCC Administrator Md Safiqul Islam Khan emphasized that there will be no compromise with those obstructing the operation.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the administrator's statement came as he inspected the aftermath of an attack on DNCC vehicles, police, and journalists during an eviction drive near Hope Market at Mirpur-10. Safiqul confirmed that those responsible for creating chaos and attacking DNCC personnel would face legal action.
The recent operation at Mirpur-10 is part of a broader campaign against illegal occupation of footpaths. Safiqul alleged that the attack was incited by those occupying the footpaths, who fled after meeting resistance from local residents. Separate legal cases will be filed by DNCC and the police against the perpetrators.
Additionally, Safiqul claimed that certain individuals set fire to a mosque earlier that day as part of a disorderly plot. He stressed that the government would not tolerate any actions undermining public welfare and thanked the residents of Mirpur for their support in the eviction efforts.
The administrator encouraged ongoing public support for DNCC operations, describing them as a response to public demand. He reiterated that DNCC's responsibility is to the people and that these activities would continue to fulfill that duty.
Safiqul highlighted previous efforts to improve the environment around Mirpur-10, noting that an eviction drive was conducted beneath a footbridge, followed by tree planting to enhance pedestrian areas. He mentioned plans to replicate these improvements across other areas under DNCC's jurisdiction.
On the issue of street vendors, Safiqul noted that despite previous agreements and the issuance of 204 registration cards for alternative business locations, vendors have returned to the footpaths. He stated that footpaths are meant for public passage and vendors would not be allowed to occupy them.
During the inspection, local political leaders and Mirpur residents showed their support for the DNCC's initiatives, pledging continued cooperation in reclaiming footpaths for pedestrian use.