After the inspection, DSCC Administrator told journalists, ‘Although Dhanmondi is a residential area, there are many commercial establishments here. Owners of these establishments must conduct business within their designated spaces. Footpaths must not be occupied in any way, and no hawker should be allowed to sit in front of establishments. Footpaths must always be kept open for pedestrians to move without obstruction.’ Regarding the footpath in the New Market area, he said that no hawkers can sit on the footpath from New Market’s main road and Gate No. 2 to Gate No. 4. However, noting that discussions are ongoing on rehabilitation of hawkers or alternative places, he said, ‘We want hawkers to also get the opportunity to do business, but not by blocking roads and footpaths.’

Informing about a special drive to control the dengue situation, Md. Abdus Salam said Dhanmondi has been identified as a dengue-risk area in a survey; therefore, a new special mosquito eradication and cleanliness drive is being carried out here. He sought the cooperation of city residents so that Aedes mosquito larvae do not accumulate under buildings, beside roads, or in drains. To build Dhaka as a green and livable city, he called upon BNP and all political parties and social organizations to take part in public welfare work to implement Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s instructions.

Noting that only the city corporation has the jurisdiction to carry out eviction drives, he warned that no one other than the city corporation can conduct any kind of eviction drive. Criticizing cocktail explosions and arson on vehicles, he said the support of the people cannot be gained by creating violence and public suffering; everyone must be patient for elections through the democratic process. DSCC Chief Executive Officer, Chief Waste Management Officer, Chief Health Officer, Executive Magistrate and Revenue Officer, including senior officials, and members of law enforcement agencies were present during the drive.