Dhaka Needs a Lasting Solution for Hawker Congestion

It is difficult to accept that despite repeated eviction drives by the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) and Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC), hawkers are returning to cleared footpaths within days. In some areas, they reportedly return within hours. A recent report published in this newspaper highlights the continuing challenge. We find this deeply concerning. It shows that periodic eviction cannot resolve a problem that also involves regulation, rehabilitation and oversight.

Since April, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) and the two city corporations have conducted several drives against illegal occupation of footpaths and roads. However, vendors have returned to areas such as Gulistan and Paltan soon afterwards. Separate media reports have also alleged that politically connected individuals or local influential groups help some hawkers regain access to cleared areas. Even designated vending spaces have not always prevented encroachment, with some vendors allegedly extending their stalls beyond permitted boundaries. Meanwhile, DNCC and DSCC have introduced designated areas, operating hours and digital identity cards. In the first phase, 302 hawkers received cards, while hundreds more were identified for relocation. Nevertheless, such measures will not work unless authorities can ensure compliance and prevent undue influence.

The consequences are most visible on the streets. Stalls, merchandise and customer gatherings often leave pedestrians with little room, forcing them onto busy roads and adding to traffic congestion. Vehicles stopping for loading and unloading further disrupt movement. Moreover, allegations of political influence in vendor placement raise concerns about equal enforcement. These claims have not been independently established, and no individual or organisation should face blame without evidence. Even so, the authorities should examine them seriously and ensure that regulations apply equally to all.

Against this backdrop, the authorities should adopt a comprehensive footpath management policy. A transparent digital database should record each registered vendor’s identity, previous location, allocated space and operating hours. Vending zones should have clear boundaries and regular oversight. More importantly, holiday and night markets and time-based vending could offer viable alternatives while keeping pedestrian routes open. Authorities should also monitor cleared areas after each drive and quickly address any unauthorised return.

Ultimately, we expect DNCC and DSCC to protect both livelihoods and pedestrians’ right to safe and accessible footpaths. Hawkers need workable alternatives; however, public space cannot remain open to whoever can secure influence over it. Therefore, the goal should not be more eviction drives but a fair and enforceable system that prevents reoccupation. Dhaka needs transparent rehabilitation, equal enforcement and sustained oversight. Otherwise, the capital will remain trapped in the same cycle of eviction, temporary clearance and renewed congestion.