# CDA Chairman pledges stringent action against unauthorized sidewalk shops in Chattogram

*The Chairman of the Chattogram Development Authority (CDA) has expressed strong disapproval of illegal shops constructed on sidewalks and drainage systems in the city.*

June 23, 2026 · Bangladesh

## At a glance

- CDA Chairman announces strict measures against illegal sidewalk and drainage shop constructions.
- Immediate instructions given to free sidewalks and drainage systems from illegal occupation.
- Narrowed roads and blocked drainage systems causing traffic congestion and waterlogging.

The Chairman of the Chattogram Development Authority (CDA), Engineer Belayet Hossain, has announced strict measures against the illegal construction of shops on sidewalks and drainage systems in Chattogram city. During an inspection of the ongoing repair work on Oxygen-Kuaish Road on Monday, he expressed his anger over the unauthorized occupation of sidewalks and drainage systems for shop construction.

## Immediate Action Ordered

Engineer Belayet Hossain immediately instructed the relevant officials to free the sidewalks and drainage systems from illegal occupation. He noted that the improper actions of a few individuals were placing undue burden on the CDA. The drainage systems, meant for water flow, have been blocked, and the entrances have been filled with debris, disrupting the normal water drainage system.

## Impact on Road and Drainage

The CDA Chairman pointed out that the occupation of sidewalks has narrowed the four-lane road, causing severe traffic congestion. Temporary shops selling fruits, shoes, and clothes have been set up along the sidewalks, and some shop owners are collecting rent from these establishments. In many places, the drainage systems have been covered to create shop spaces, further obstructing their cleaning and maintenance, leading to increased waterlogging and public suffering.

## Directives for Officials

At the end of the inspection, the CDA Chairman directed the Chief Engineer and Secretary to remove the covers from the occupied drainage systems and restore them promptly. He also urged the removal of illegal structures and the installation of new slabs over the drainage systems. The Chairman also checked the quality of construction materials used in the repair work and instructed to ensure the quality of the work. Later, he visited other residential areas and announced the initiative to install an aesthetic water fountain at the Kuaish end.

## Quality Control and Future Projects

During the inspection, the CDA Chairman also examined the quality of construction materials used in the repair work and instructed to ensure the quality of the work. He announced the initiative to install an aesthetic water fountain at the Kuaish end after visiting other residential areas.

## Sources

- [BSS](https://www.bssnews.net/bangla/news/317389)

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Source: https://pulsetoday.com.bd/en/bangladesh/cda-chairman-strict-action-illegal-sidewalk-shops
