35 Illegal Shops Demolished in Savar Drive

A major eviction drive was carried out on Tuesday afternoon along the Dhaka–Aricha Highway in Savar, as the local administration moved decisively to remove illegally constructed structures from government land. The operation took place in the Chotobalimeher area, adjacent to the Savar Model Mosque, and resulted in the demolition of 35 unauthorised shops and roadside installations.

The drive was led by Abdullah Al Amin, Assistant Commissioner (Land) of Savar Upazila, who also served as Executive Magistrate during the operation. According to officials, a group of unscrupulous individuals had been occupying government-owned land along the busy highway, erecting makeshift shops and subsequently renting them out for commercial gain. These illegal structures had narrowed the highway’s shoulder, disrupting traffic flow and significantly increasing the risk of road accidents in an already congested corridor.

From early afternoon until late in the day, heavy machinery, including excavators and bulldozers, was deployed to dismantle the structures. The land cleared during the operation has been officially earmarked for the Savar Upazila Land Office, a fact confirmed by the local administration. Officials stressed that the occupation of this land had not only violated land laws but also delayed planned public infrastructure development.

Following the demolition, authorities installed an official signboard on the reclaimed land to mark it clearly as government property and to deter future attempts at encroachment. Law enforcement support was provided by police personnel from Savar Model Police Station to ensure public order and the smooth execution of the drive.

Speaking after the operation, Executive Magistrate Abdullah Al Amin issued a stern warning, stating that any individual or group found occupying highways or government land illegally would face strict legal action. He added that the administration would not show leniency towards future encroachment attempts and that similar drives would continue as part of a broader effort to protect public land and improve road safety.

Local residents welcomed the action, noting that illegal roadside shops had long caused traffic congestion and safety hazards. Many expressed hope that regular enforcement campaigns would help maintain clear highways, reduce accidents, and ensure that government land remains free from unlawful occupation.

The eviction drive reflects the administration’s renewed commitment to enforcing land regulations and ensuring safer transport corridors in fast-growing urban and semi-urban areas like Savar.

Summary of the Eviction Drive

Authorities have reiterated that such operations will remain an ongoing process to safeguard public interest and uphold the rule of law.