Mayor Takes Action: Over 100 Illegal Shops Demolished in Lake Chaumuhani Market, Focus Shifts to Development

Illegal alcohol stalls and unauthorised transactions have long plagued Lake Chaumuhani Market, with allegations of land encroachment by unscrupulous traders. Mayor Deepak Majumdar inspected the site two to three times and later held a meeting with all market members, deciding to demolish the illegal shops. Traders were given time to remove the structures themselves, but as they failed to comply, the municipal corporation demolished over 100 illegal shops in an early morning operation on Thursday.

Mayor Majumdar revisited the site today, urging opponents to focus on development rather than politics. He emphasised the corporation’s efforts to modernise and scientifically develop every market in the area. The demolition has affected some traders, and the BJP-led government has assured a humanitarian approach, aiming to clear the market within a month and provide legal business opportunities for affected parties.

The Mayor highlighted that illegal constructions and dumping of waste into nearby canals had created foul odours and increased mosquito infestations. Additionally, shops built along the riverbanks were damaging embankments. He warned that similar anti-encroachment drives would continue in other markets to curb illegal activities and corruption.

Referring to the recent demolition of illegal liquor stalls in Battala Market, the Mayor noted that opposition parties had supported the affected street vendors, whose roadside food stalls were inadvertently damaged during the operation. He called for unity, urging opposition parties to align with development efforts rather than politicising the issue.

During the inspection, Mayor Majumdar was accompanied by Amitabh Bhattacharya, Mandal President of Ramnagar Assembly Constituency, and other officials. The drive aims to create cleaner, more organised markets while addressing long-standing issues of encroachment and public health concerns.