Illegal Shops Demolished at Lake Chowmuhani, Traders Demand Rehabilitation
Agartala, Feb 27, 2025, By Our Correspondent19
The Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) demolished over 100 illegal shops at Lake Chowmuhani Market in the early hours of Thursday. The move, aimed at clearing encroachments and modernizing the market, has sparked protests among local traders who claim they were not provided with alternative spaces.
Mayor's Inspection and Decision to Demolish
Following numerous complaints regarding unauthorized liquor stalls and illegal transactions, Mayor Deepak Majumdar personally inspected the area multiple times before deciding on the demolition. A meeting was held with market members, and traders were initially given time to vacate voluntarily. However, as they failed to comply, AMC proceeded with the demolition early Thursday morning.
Protests Over Sudden Eviction
The eviction has drawn sharp criticism from small traders, who allege they were not given adequate notice or relocation options. Many vendors, who had been selling vegetables, fish, and household goods for years, now find themselves struggling to sustain their livelihoods. Business groups have condemned the AMC’s actions, demanding a proper rehabilitation plan for the affected shopkeepers.
Former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar, along with CPI(M) leaders Ratan Das and Amal Chakraborty, visited the market and met the evicted traders. Expressing concern over their plight, they criticized the AMC for not arranging alternative spaces before demolition. The evicted traders, supported by CPI(M), have announced a protest demonstration in front of the AMC office at City Centre at 4:00 PM today.
Mayor Defends Action, Assures Modernization
Mayor Majumdar, during his site visit today, urged the opposition not to politicize the issue. He emphasized that the BJP-led municipal corporation is working towards scientific and modern market development across Agartala. Acknowledging the difficulties faced by the displaced traders, he assured that efforts are being made to clear the market within a month and provide legal business opportunities.
He further stated that unauthorized constructions along the embankment of Kathakhal River were damaging the structure and contributing to environmental hazards such as mosquito breeding and waste accumulation. He reiterated that similar demolition drives would continue to remove illegal encroachments from other city markets as well.
Growing Tensions and Political Reactions
As protests continue, traders have appealed to the state government for intervention, seeking compensation or relocation. Political leaders from opposition parties have accused the AMC of executing the eviction without a proper rehabilitation strategy.
While the municipal corporation maintains that the demolition is part of an urban renewal plan, tensions between authorities and traders remain high, with further reactions expected in the coming days.