Assam's Silchar civic body launches major eviction drive to clear footpaths, deploys two excavators

The Silchar Municipal Corporation on November 14 launched a major eviction drive to clear encroached footpaths across the city, taking strict action against shops and other structures occupying pedestrian spaces.

The operation began at around 11 am from Capital Point and is scheduled to proceed through Rangirkhari towards areas along the National Highway. A large police contingent was deployed, while two excavators were pressed into service to remove the encroachments.

Several shops and commercial structures occupying the footpaths were demolished during the drive.

The eviction followed an earlier notice issued by the municipal corporation, directing traders to clear footpaths from Capital Point to Rangirkhari and areas adjoining the National Highway by November 14.

Following the notice, some traders had voluntarily removed their shops and structures amid the possibility of an eviction drive. However, as several shops continued to occupy pedestrian spaces, the civic body eventually launched the operation.

The drive has drawn considerable attention in the city. However, it was proceeding peacefully till the time of filing this report. The eviction is expected to continue in phases across the designated areas.