Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) Administrator Md. Shafiqul Islam Khan on Thursday announced that businesses will no longer be allowed on footpaths or roads to keep them free from encroachment. However, alternative arrangements will be made for small and mobile traders.

He made the remarks while addressing a dialogue session with small and mobile traders at Mukul Fouj Field in Mirpur, aimed at clearing footpaths along the Mirpur-10 to Mirpur-1 roads.

“We will arrange alternative spaces for your business. Keep in mind that business will no longer be allowed on footpaths or roads,” the administrator said.

He added that those who previously supported footpath businesses will no longer be able to assist. The city corporation will take a humane approach to address traders’ issues. “For humanitarian reasons, we came to talk to you. We could have cleared the area by force, but we chose not to. We want people in our area to continue their livelihood through business,” he said.

Traders at the session requested designated spaces, sufficient time, and suitable locations for relocation to continue their businesses effectively. They also noted that many have earned their livelihood on footpaths for years and sudden eviction could jeopardize their families.

The administrator assured that a practical solution would be reached through dialogue and a five-member representative team will engage in detailed discussions.

He also said the DNCC would provide traders with tokens to prevent extortion. “If anyone demands money after receiving a token, you do not pay and inform us—we are on your side,” he added.

The session was attended by DNCC Chief Engineer Brigadier General Syed Rakibul Hasan, the Deputy Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police’s Mirpur Zone, and other local dignitaries.