The footpaths and roads of Gulistan are currently reflecting a striking dual reality. Mornings bring relief as law enforcement agencies clear the area of street vendors, the situation changes dramatically by evening, when hawkers return and reclaim the same spaces. This daily cycle has left city dwellers both hopeful and frustrated, highlighting the complexity of managing urban public spaces in a densely populated capital like Dhaka.
A morning visit to Gulistan presents an unfamiliar yet welcome scene. The sidewalks are unusually clear, allowing pedestrians to move freely without hindrance. Traffic congestion is comparatively less, making commuting smoother and less time-consuming.
For many residents, this marks a refreshing break from the long-standing congestion and disorder that typically define the area. Office-goers, students and ordinary pedestrians can move around with ease, which was almost impossible earlier.
However, this sense of order proves to be temporary. As the day progresses into the afternoon and evening, the situation begins to reverse. One by one, makeshift stalls start to reappear, gradually occupying the footpath once again. Hawkers lay out their goods, customers gather, and within hours, the same paths become crowded and chaotic. The footpaths, meant for pedestrians, turn into market-like spaces, forcing people to walk on the roads and increasing the risk of accidents.
Seventy-year-old Rahmat Ali from Nabinagar in Brahmanbaria experienced this transformation firsthand on Monday morning while traveling to his son's residence in Dhanmondi. Coming from his village home, he first reached Narsingdi by launch and then boarded a bus to Gulistan. Upon arrival, he was surprised to see the usually crowded walkways completely clear.
After getting off the bus, Rahmat Ali walked through several key locations, including Sergeant Ahad Police Box, Baitul Mukarram, Zero Point, Golap Shah Mazar, and Bangabandhu Avenue. He observes that traffic congestion is low and pedestrian movement is normal. Later, he took a rickshaw and easily reached Dhanmondi, where he shared his pleasant experience with his family members, expressing joy at the unexpected change.
The ongoing operation is being conducted by the Traffic Division of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police, coordinating efforts across multiple zones from Ramna to Gulshan. Authorities are actively removing illegal structures and shops that occupy both sidewalks and roads. The initiative has already received praise from a large section of city residents who have long suffered due to congestion and insecurity in the area.
Hasan Ali, a sanitary goods trader from Lalbagh, told The Daily Observer, Previously, it would take an extra one to one-and-a-half hours to cross Gulistan, and there was always a risk of pickpocketing. Now the roads are clear, and movement is much easier. His statement reflects the feelings of ordinary people, who are enjoying the benefits of the campaign, even if temporarily.
However, the eviction drive has also raised serious concerns about livelihoods. Hundreds, if not thousands, of hawkers who depended on these sidewalks for their daily income are now facing uncertainty. Areas such as Baitul Mukarram, Zero Point, Golap Shah Mazar, and Bangabandhu Avenue were home to about 5,000 informal vendors. For them, this sudden eviction without rehabilitation has created significant economic pressure.
Abdullah Rana, a hawker from Purana Paltan, told The Daily Observer, We have been removed without any alternative arrangements. Before, we could at least earn something daily. Now we are struggling to support our families. His words underline the human side of the issue, where enforcement clashes with survival.
Mobile court magistrates have stated that the operation will continue in order to keep footpaths free for pedestrians. They have warned that fines and even imprisonment may be imposed if necessary to ensure compliance. According to officials, maintaining smooth public movement and restoring order in important areas remains a top priority.
