West Bengal Rural Development and Panchayat Affairs Minister Dilip Ghosh announced plans to clear pavements and footpaths in Kolkata of illegal hawkers’ stalls, similar to ongoing actions at railway stations in the state. Ghosh emphasized that these areas are not meant for conducting business and should be accessible to pedestrians who contribute taxes to the government.
He highlighted the unfairness faced by both pedestrians and legal shop owners due to illegal encroachments, which often force pedestrians to walk on congested streets, posing risks to their safety. Ghosh urged illegal encroachers to voluntarily vacate the footpaths and pavements, warning of legal action if necessary to ensure public safety.
The issue of illegal encroachments on Kolkata’s footpaths and pavements has persisted for years, leading to conflicts between pedestrians and encroachers and contributing to traffic congestion and accidents. Despite long-standing complaints, previous administrations failed to address the problem effectively.
