Published: 12:28 AM, 24 May 2026
Releasing Dhaka’s Sidewalks Sustainably Is An Urban Obligation
Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, is one of the most densely populated cities in the world. Every day millions of people move through its crowded streets for work, education, and business. However, one of the major problems faced by pedestrians is the illegal occupation of sidewalks by squatters, hawkers, and temporary structures. As a result, pedestrians are often forced to walk on busy roads, risking their lives. Releasing Dhaka’s sidewalks from squatters has become an urgent necessity for ensuring public safety and improving urban life.
Sidewalks are built for pedestrians, but in many areas of Dhaka they are occupied by street vendors, tea stalls, and makeshift shops. In some places, homeless people also use sidewalks as shelters. Although many hawkers are poor and depend on street business for survival, the uncontrolled occupation of sidewalks creates serious problems. Traffic congestion increases because people cannot walk freely. Accidents frequently occur when pedestrians are compelled to use the roads instead of the footpaths. Moreover, blocked sidewalks create an unhealthy and disorderly urban environment.
To solve this problem, the government and city corporations must take effective and humane measures. First, illegal structures on sidewalks should be removed through regular monitoring and law enforcement. Anti-encroachment drives should not be occasional; they must be continuous and strictly supervised. Second, alternative business spaces should be arranged for street vendors so that they can earn their livelihoods without occupying public walkways. Creating designated hawker markets in different parts of the city could be an effective solution.
Public awareness is also essential. Citizens should understand that sidewalks are public property meant for safe walking. Political influence and corruption, which often allow illegal occupation to continue, must be controlled. In addition, proper urban planning is necessary to develop wider and cleaner sidewalks that can accommodate the growing population of Dhaka.
In conclusion, freeing Dhaka’s sidewalks from squatters is vital for ensuring pedestrian safety, reducing traffic congestion, and creating a more organized city. While the livelihoods of poor vendors should be considered, public convenience and safety cannot be ignored. Through proper planning, strict law enforcement, and social cooperation, Dhaka can reclaim its sidewalks and become a more livable city for everyone.
