Chattogram:Chattogram City Corporation (CCC) Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain has announced plans to remove encroachments from footpaths near schools to ensure the safe and unhindered movement of students.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the announcement was made during a prize-giving ceremony for the annual sports and cultural competitions at Rampur City Corporation High School, where he also inaugurated the vertical expansion of the school building in Ward No. 25.
Mayor Shahadat emphasized that no businesses or illegal structures would be allowed to occupy footpaths used by students. He urged those currently occupying these spaces to voluntarily remove their structures, warning that the City Corporation would otherwise conduct eviction drives. He stated, "I do not want anyone to conduct business on the footpaths or sell goods from pushcarts placed there," and highlighted the importance of removing permanent structures from these areas to ensure students can walk to school without hindrance.
He also stressed that ensuring student safety is a shared responsibility, involving not only the City Corporation but also teachers, guardians, school managing committees, and other responsible members of society. Additionally, he declared that no misconduct by juvenile gangs, terrorists, or eve-teasers would be tolerated around schools.
Regarding the CCC's mosquito-control activities, Mayor Shahadat mentioned the use of BTI larvicide, recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), which is playing an effective role in controlling dengue.
The event was presided over by CCC Chief Education Officer Dr. Kissinger Chakma, with the welcome address delivered by the Acting Headmaster of Rampur City Corporation High School, Mohammad Asefur Rahman Faruki. At the conclusion of the program, Mayor Shahadat distributed prizes to the winners of the school's annual sports and cultural competitions and inaugurated the vertical expansion work of the school building.