Eviction drive in Bistupur Khau Gali ahead of Durga Puja

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, Sept 26: In a sudden anti-encroachment drive, local civic authorities cleared nearly two dozen pavement shops in Khau Gali, Bistupur, citing security and festival-related concerns.

The move, carried out on Friday, left street vendors shocked and facing significant financial losses just ahead of the Durga Puja celebrations.

The operation was conducted by a joint team from the Jamshedpur Notified Area Committee (JNAC) and Jusco, with bulldozers used to remove the makeshift stalls and kiosks.

City Manager of JNAC, Jitendra Kumar, explained that encroachments in Khau Gali frequently caused traffic congestion, creating jam-like conditions.

He added that with the approaching Durga Puja festival and potential large crowds, the clearance was necessary for public safety.

Authorities also cited a history of criminal incidents in the area as a reason for the urgent action.

However, the drive delivered a major setback to pavement vendors, who had hoped to earn substantial income during the festival season.

Many expressed concern that the sudden demolition had jeopardized their livelihood.

The focus now shifts to whether the administration will take steps to rehabilitate and support the affected shopkeepers.