A special eviction drive targeting illegal hawkers and informal roadside shops beneath the Uttara North and Uttara Centre metro rail stations in Dhaka was carried out on Tuesday by the Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL), in an effort to restore order, improve commuter access, and ensure a cleaner station environment.
The operation, which ran from approximately 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon, resulted in the complete removal of long-standing unauthorised structures and makeshift vending stalls that had gradually occupied the station underpasses and adjacent pedestrian areas. Authorities stated that these encroachments had been obstructing passenger movement and contributing to congestion around one of the capital’s busiest metro corridors.
The drive was conducted under the direct instruction of DMTCL Managing Director and Additional Secretary to the Government, Mohammad Shawkatul Alam. It was led on the ground by three executive magistrates, who oversaw the enforcement of legal measures and coordinated the clearance activities. During the operation, all temporary shops, mobile vendors, and informal settlements were dismantled and removed.
Officials confirmed that the affected hawkers were firmly cautioned against re-establishing any form of illegal trade within the metro station premises. They were also required to provide assurances that they would comply with relevant regulations in the future. The authorities emphasised that repeated violations would result in stricter legal action.
In addition to enforcement measures, special instructions were issued to maintain cleanliness in and around the station premises. Permanent shop owners in the surrounding areas were directed to dispose of waste responsibly in designated bins to ensure an uninterrupted and hygienic environment for passengers using the metro system.
At the conclusion of the operation, officials and stakeholders expressed a shared commitment to maintaining discipline, safety, and cleanliness across the metro station zones. DMTCL further reiterated that such eviction drives would continue periodically as part of its broader initiative to enhance passenger experience and uphold operational standards.
Agencies and Officials Involved
| Agency / Personnel | Role in Operation |
|---|---|
| Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) | Overall coordination and execution |
| Executive Magistrates | Legal enforcement and on-site leadership |
| Turag Police Station | Security support and crowd management |
| Metro Rail Police | Station security control |
| Ansar Members | Maintenance of order and assistance |
| Metro Rail Security Staff | Overall surveillance and monitoring |
According to DMTCL sources, the operation was supervised by Executive Magistrates Mohammad Shahjahan Ali, Mohammad Jahidul Islam, and Nazrul Islam. Additionally, Mohammad Zakir Siddique, Deputy General Manager (Security) and retired Major, also participated in the drive.
Authorities reiterated that sustained monitoring would continue to ensure that the Uttara station areas remain free from illegal occupation. The primary objective of these initiatives, they said, is to guarantee smooth passenger movement, enhance commuter safety, and preserve a disciplined urban transport environment within the metro rail network in Dhaka.