The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) have launched drives in several areas, including Farmgate, Kakoli, Gulshan, Jatrabari, and Indira Road, to clear sidewalks by removing illegal shops and belongings of traders and shop owners.

During the operation, law enforcers and mobile courts run by the Dhaka North City Corporation magistrate removed a number of makeshift shops that encroached on footpaths. In some areas, authorities confiscated goods, while in others they issued warnings, asking vendors to vacate voluntarily.

The drive, which began in the morning, will continue, a DMP official said. Speaking after the operation in Farmgate, Executive Magistrate Md Faisal said authorities considered vendors’ livelihood concerns and primarily sought to persuade them to move.

“We have explained to them to vacate the footpath. However, if they return, strict action will be taken,” he added. He also noted that regular monitoring would continue to prevent reoccupation.

ImageIn Kakoli, mobile courts removed banners, digital signage, and extensions of shops from the sidewalks.

On March 23, the DMP announced a coordinated citywide drive starting April 1, urging traders to remove their belongings in advance. The public notice warned that violators could face fines, jail terms, and confiscation of items placed on footpaths and roads.

According to the notice, many businesses — including restaurants, showrooms, workshops, and street vendors — continue to encroach on walkways with grills, ovens, chairs, and makeshift platforms. Such illegal occupation forces pedestrians onto roads, inconveniencing the public and worsening traffic congestion