Derai Correspondent: The upazila administration has conducted an eviction drive to remove illegal establishments occupying sidewalks in the Derai Upazila headquarters of Sunamganj.
The drive began around 11:00 am on Saturday (December 13), starting from Derai Bazar Bridge and continuing up to the police station area.
During the operation, illegal shops and various temporary structures built on public sidewalks were dismantled. The drive was led by Upazila Executive Officer and Executive Magistrate Sanjeeb Sarkar.
Officer-in-Charge of Derai Police Station Enamul Haque Chowdhury, along with officials of Derai Municipality and a team from Derai Police Station, assisted in carrying out the operation.
Earlier, the upazila administration had issued notices and set a deadline of December 5 for the voluntary removal of all illegal establishments from the sidewalks. As the directive was not complied with, the administration proceeded with the eviction drive.
Speaking on the matter, the UNO said that sidewalks are meant for public movement. However, due to illegal occupation and business activities, pedestrians—especially women, children and the elderly—had been facing severe difficulties.
He added that the campaign was conducted to reduce public suffering and maintain order in the town and such drives would continue in the future.
Local residents have welcomed the initiative and expressed hope that it will bring lasting relief to the public.