Govt decides to let hawkers stay on footpaths

The government yesterday ordered the law enforcement agencies not to evict hawkers from footpaths in the capital.
“We asked the law enforces to take steps to prevent hawkers from occupying roads, and keep them restricted onto footpaths only,” said State Minister for Home Shamsul Haque Tuku.
He made the comment after an inter-ministerial meeting on law and order. Chaired by Home Minister Shahara Khatun, the meeting was held at home ministry.
Setting up of makeshift shops by hawkers on footpaths has not started recently and it is a longstanding issue, he said adding that it needs political decision to get rid of the problem.
Home Minister Shahara Khatun said they asked concern authorities to make bypass roads in under construction flyovers areas to avert traffic jams by diverting traffics in the capital.
Mobile courts will be conducted on regular basis against adulteration in foods.
Quoting Law Minister Shafique Ahmed, who was present at the meeting, Tuku said the government would amend related laws if necessary to increase the operation of mobile courts against food adulteration in the country.
Participants in the meeting also discussed probable garment workers' agitations during the month of Ramadan demanding Eid bonuses.