The Sunamganj-Sylhet regional highway remains trapped in an endless cycle of eviction and encroachment as unauthorised roadside establishments keep reappearing despite repeated demolition drives.

This persistent issue is causing severe traffic congestion, frustrating commuters and highlighting weaknesses in enforcement.

Every year, authorities conduct eviction drives to clear makeshift shops and markets lining the highway.

But within days, traders and encroachers reclaim the land, setting up businesses as if nothing happened.

The resulting congestion disrupts the flow of vehicles, turning short commutes into prolonged delays.

On January 15, the Roads and Highways Department (RHD) dismantled around 300 illegal establishments between Wezkhali and Jauabazar.

Durning a recent visit to Dirai Road Point, theUNB correspondent found encroachers had already returned, rebuilding their makeshift shops with bamboo and tin.

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Zahur, a local hotel owner, was among those reconstructing his business on the same spot.

"This is my livelihood. I have no choice but to start over," he said. Similarly, Modern Hans Bhat, a restaurant that was demolished during the drive, resumed operations within days with a new signboard.

For many traders, eviction is just a temporary disruption. “Authorities conduct evictions every year, and we prepare for them. It’s just a routine event for us,” said a restaurant worker, reflecting the widespread perception that eviction drives lack long-term impact.

Traffic Chaos and Public Frustration

The unchecked encroachment has significantly slowed down traffic along the highway.

Local residents report that journeys that should take 10 minutes now stretch to hours due to roadside businesses obstructing movement.

The congestion also affects the transportation of goods, making life difficult for commuters and traders alike.

Amir Hossain, a frustrated resident, criticised the ineffective approach. "It’s a never-ending cycle of eviction and reoccupation. Public funds are being wasted without any real change."

Call for Sustainable Solutions

Experts argue that weak enforcement, the absence of legal action, and inadequate post-eviction monitoring have rendered the eviction drives futile.

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Faisal Ahmad, a member of the Sunamganj Citizens' Committee, stressed the need for a strategic solution.

“We’ve seen these eviction drives for years, but they never produce lasting results. Authorities must ensure proper monitoring and provide alternative locations for affected traders,” he said.

Officials Acknowledge the Challenge

Shahadat Hossain, Sub-Divisional Engineer of the RHD, admitted the difficulty of keeping encroachers off the highway. “We remove illegal structures, but they return. There’s a lack of awareness and respect for the law. Another eviction drive will be necessary soon.”

When asked about the repeated spending of public funds on evictions, he suggested a more drastic approach. "Unless we establish a permanent office along the road or continuously issue warnings, encroachment will persist."

With eviction drives failing to deliver lasting results, experts and locals are urging authorities to adopt a sustainable strategy.

Without strict enforcement, legal consequences, and alternative solutions for traders, the Sunamganj-Sylhet highway will remain locked in its never-ending cycle of eviction and encroachment.