Photo: BSS

BARISHAL, April 12, 2026 (BSS) - Barishal City Corporation (BCC) has begun an eviction drive to remove illegal establishments occupying sidewalks and roads across the city aiming to ease pedestrian movement and reduce congestion.

The eviction drive officially started at 11:00 am today in Fazlul Haque Avenue area of the city. The initiative targets numerous temporary businesses that have long been operating by encroaching on footpaths and key roadways.

According to BCC officials, prior notices were issued through public announcements, giving encroachers a 10-day deadline to vacate the occupied spaces. While some complied and removed their establishments voluntarily, others failed to do so, prompting the authorities to take direct action.

BCC administrative officer Swapan Kumar Das said that the eviction process will be carried out in phases across different parts of the city. "We had already requested those occupying sidewalks illegally to move their establishments. Since some did not comply, we have started the drive, which will continue until all encroachments are cleared," he said.

The BCC expects the drive will restore public access to sidewalks and improve overall traffic conditions in Barishal.