KMC & Kolkata Police demolished over 50 footpath settlements in Wellington, sparks local outrage

In a sweeping move to reclaim public spaces, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), backed by Kolkata police, demolished over 50 footpath settlements and hawker stalls along Rafi Ahmed Kidwai Road in Wellington, Kolkata, triggering protests from residents near Aliah University, Muslim Institute, and Haji Mohammad Mohsin Square. The operation, targeting illegal encroachments on the busy footpath, aimed to restore pedestrian access but faced fierce opposition from locals who called the action sudden and disruptive. Despite the resistance, the KMC pressed forward, clearing the area of makeshift settlements and stalls, and warned of more such drives in the future.

Residents, many of whom relied on these spaces for their livelihoods and shelter, expressed anger over the lack of prior notice or alternative arrangements, highlighting the human toll of the operation.As bulldozers moved in, accompanied by police and KMC officials, they were met with vocal protests from locals who gathered to protect their homes and stalls. The demonstrations, while non-violent, underscored the deep frustration among those affected, who argued that the demolition left them homeless and without income. Some residents pleaded for time to relocate, while others questioned the KMC’s approach, accusing it of prioritizing aesthetics over people’s livelihoods.

Despite the tense atmosphere, the authorities completed the demolition, leaving the footpath cleared but the community in distress.KMC officials defended the operation, asserting that the shanties were illegal and violated municipal regulations governing public spaces. The footpath, meant for pedestrian use, had been overtaken by makeshift structures, creating safety hazards and disrupting access to key institutions like Aliah University. The KMC emphasized that the drive was part of a citywide effort to restore order and ensure safe, accessible pathways, particularly in high-traffic areas like Wellington. The announcement of further operations signals a firm stance against encroachments, but it has also raised fears of similar actions in other parts of Kolkata.