Gulshan Society backed by local police and city corporation officials evicted some 50 makeshift roadside vendors from different roads around the south park in a bid to free footpaths and prevent "public nuisance".

They also dismantled some unauthorised nurseries and makeshift sheds along the Gulshan Lake, said Gulshan Society General Secretary Delwar Hosain Dulal.

Gulshan Society President ATM Shamsul Huda claimed that their other objectives were to prevent peddling of illicit drugs which he said was ongoing under cover of such makeshift shops and to ensure a peaceful environment for the residents.

"Of late, the nuisance of drug peddling and vagabonds in this posh residential area has reached an unbearable state," he said.

Belal Hossain, a fruit and vegetable vendor on the sidewalk by the park, however, said they were just earning their daily bread and that it was unjust to evict them without providing an alternative arrangement for livelihood.

Their problem is understood, said Huda, but this is an upscale residential neighbourhood, where inhabitants spend exorbitantly for property and high municipality tax with the expectation for a better living.

This is not the place to do such petty businesses, added the former chief election commissioner.

It was pointed out to Huda that the residential atmosphere was degrading extensively in the posh neighbourhood with scores of unauthorised commercial establishments like hotels, restaurants, shops and offices at residential houses.

He was also informed that illegal parking was making everyday mobility impossible with the designated spaces for car parking at most of the buildings being used for commercial purposes.

In reply, he said, "We need to be more organised to address such a big issue."