Published: 12:24 AM, 04 May 2026
Releasing Sidewalks from Squatters Lacks Practical Steps
Rifat Rafique Badhan
In a rapidly growing city like Dhaka, the tension between urban order and economic survival is visible on every major road. Sidewalk traders—often referred to as hawkers—occupy public walkways, creating congestion and inconvenience for pedestrians. Yet, behind these makeshift stalls are thousands of livelihoods that sustain families. Any attempt to evict them without proper rehabilitation risks deepening inequality and social instability. People who survive by selling things on sidewalks are also humans.
Sidewalk trading in Dhaka is not merely a matter of illegal occupation; it is a reflection of broader economic realities. Many of these traders come from rural areas, driven by poverty, unemployment, or climate-related displacement. With limited education and few formal job opportunities, informal trade becomes one of the few accessible means of survival. Evicting them without alternatives effectively removes their only source of income, pushing them further into vulnerability.
Authorities often justify eviction drives on the grounds of urban management. Clear sidewalks are essential for pedestrian safety, traffic flow, and the overall aesthetics of the city. These concerns are valid. However, enforcement that ignores the human dimension tends to produce short-lived results. Traders frequently return after eviction because the underlying economic pressures remain unchanged. This cycle of eviction and return highlights the inadequacy of approaches that focus solely on removal rather than resolution.
Rehabilitation offers a more sustainable and humane solution. Designated vending zones, affordable market spaces, and microfinance support can help integrate these traders into the formal economy. By providing legal recognition and basic infrastructure, the city can ensure both order and economic inclusion. Successful examples from other cities show that when vendors are organized and supported, they contribute positively to urban life rather than disrupting it.
Moreover, involving traders in the decision-making process is crucial. Policies designed without their input often fail to address practical realities. Engaging with vendor associations can lead to more effective and widely accepted solutions. It also fosters a sense of responsibility among traders to maintain cleanliness, follow regulations, and respect public spaces.
Rehabilitation is not only an economic necessity but also a moral obligation. A city’s development should not come at the cost of its most vulnerable residents. Inclusive urban planning recognizes that informal workers are an integral part of the urban ecosystem. They provide affordable goods and services to millions, particularly low-income consumers who rely on them daily.
Critics may argue that rehabilitation requires time, resources, and administrative effort. While this is true, the long-term benefits outweigh the costs. A well-managed system reduces recurring enforcement expenses, minimizes social conflict, and enhances the city’s overall functionality. More importantly, it aligns development with principles of fairness and dignity.
Rifat Rafique Badhan is a
freelancer and a columnist.
