DMP warns footpath vendors, vows strict action against reoccupation

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has launched a drive against the illegal occupation of footpaths in the capital. During the initial phase of the drive, offenders were warned, and authorities requested vendors to vacate the sidewalks while considering their livelihoods, said DMP Special Metropolitan Magistrate Md Al Faisal.

Speaking to reporters after the drive in the Indira Road area of Farmgate on Wednesday (April 1), he said that vendors were asked to move in consideration of their means of earning, but strict action would be taken if they reoccupy the footpaths.

Al Faisal added that many of the stalls on the footpaths are directly tied to the vendors’ income. “During today’s drive, we tried to make them understand and asked them to leave the area. This drive will continue, and there will be regular monitoring. If anyone sets up a stall here again, we will take action, impose fines, and seize goods,” he said.

He further noted that the primary objective is to persuade vendors to vacate peacefully. “We have removed illegal extensions during this operation. However, if anyone rebuilds those extensions, we will take necessary action,” he added.