Kolkata

The effort to remove hawkers illegally occupying sidewalks and roadways in West Bengal has been paused for one month, as declared by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday. The drive began on Tuesday. During this month, there will be no eviction. Roadside vendors have been asked to organize their goods. Government agencies will continue surveying the areas.

The state government will ensure that alternative spaces for the vendors’ businesses are provided. Storage facilities will be arranged if needed. However, businesses will not be allowed to intrude on public roads.

CM Banerjee spoke at a state administrative meeting attended by top police and bureaucrats, including district superintendents and magistrates. She explained that the eviction drive started this week to beautify the areas. The government seeks the cooperation of street vendors in this project and promises full support in their rehabilitation.

Additionally, a warning was given to government contractors working on public works, especially those involved in building and maintaining roads. Roads that are newly built or restored must remain intact for the next five years. If not, the contractors responsible will be blacklisted.