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Field observations showed that many footpaths remained comparatively clear, as vendors began vacating occupied spaces. However, hawkers demanded compensation and rehabilitation before such drives.

“We are conducting the second day of the drive from Jatrabari to Faruk Sarani, Golapbagh, Kazla, Saidabad and other areas. The drive will continue,” said Azad Rahman, deputy commissioner of the Wari Traffic Division, speaking to The Daily Star.

Police also conducted a drive to evict illegal shops and structures on Ring Road in Shyamoli. Similar drives are planned for Tajmahal Road and Salimullah Road in Mohammadpur.

Several private cars and motorcycles parked illegally along roadsides were fined. Some shopkeepers were also fined for placing goods on roads and footpaths.

Many individuals were penalised for obstructing pedestrian movement, while others were warned.

Special Metropolitan Magistrate Md Al-Faisal of the DMP led the operation.

He said instructions had been issued to keep footpaths clear, but many failed to comply. “As a result, some were warned while others were fined,” he said.

Responding to a question about the return of illegal structures, he said regular monitoring would be arranged in consultation with higher authorities.

Around 50 police personnel, including Assistant Police Commissioner Md Aslam Sagar of the Mohammadpur Traffic Zone, took part in the drive.

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

Meanwhile, Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) Administrator Md Shafiqul Islam Khan reiterated that footpaths and roads must remain free from encroachment and that no business activities will be allowed there. However, he said alternative arrangements would be made for small and floating traders.

He made the remarks at a meeting with hawkers and small traders at Mukul Fouz Field in Mirpur, held to discuss clearing footpaths from Mirpur-10 to Mirpur-1.

“We will arrange alternative places for your businesses. You must keep in mind that no business will be allowed on footpaths or roads,” he said.

He added that those who previously facilitated such businesses would no longer be able to do so. Acknowledging the traders’ concerns, he said the city corporation would take a humane approach.

At the meeting, representatives of hawkers demanded designated relocation spaces, sufficient time for relocation, and suitable locations for business.

They said many had been operating for years, and sudden eviction would cause hardship. They called for proper arrangements before relocation.

In response, the administrator said a workable solution would be developed through discussions, and detailed talks would be held with a five-member team.

He also said tokens would be issued by the city corporation to prevent extortion. “Once you receive the token, do not pay anyone asking for money -- inform us, and we will stand by you,” he said.