Despite approval from the Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) mayor, evictions of illegal establishments are not carried out. It’s believed that this happens due to underhand links of unscrupulous officials.

Reportedly, taking bribes, the eviction drive is suspended. In Kaptan Bazaar, 149 shops are built illegally and an eviction order was issued six months ago. However, no drive has been carried out as yet.

DSCC sources said that large areas have been illegally occupied by influential people.

Notable among the illegal establishments are illegal structures within Gulistan Shaheed Matiur Rahman Park, block B of Fulbaria Market-2 (6th to 8th floor), illegal nurseries on the old Elephant Road, area by Fulbaria police box, offices on the road by Dhaka Medical College etc.

There is a complaint against the Chief Executive of the Assets Department, Mr Asaduzzaman.

It’s alleged that whenever the time comes to take action, he has suspended eviction for some unspecified reason.

Asaduzzaman says: “I have been transferred from DSCC; you have to talk to the new chief executive.”

Dhaka South Mayor Sayeed Khokon adds: “I always give decision to evict illegal structures; since so many decisions have not been implemented, I will form committees to investigate why the decisions were not carried out.”