Capital Point to Rangirkhari: Silchar Launches Major Eviction Drive

The Silchar Municipal Corporation (SMC) launched a major eviction drive on Saturday (14 November) to clear encroached footpaths across the city, demolishing several shops with the help of two excavators. The operation began at around 11 am from Capital Point and is planned to cover Rangirkhari and areas along the National Highway.

The drive is being carried out against traders who have been operating from footpaths by occupying public spaces. A large police force was deployed to assist the civic body during the operation. Two excavators were brought in to demolish shops and other structures found occupying the footpaths.

Earlier, the Municipal Corporation had issued a notice directing traders to clear the footpaths between Capital Point, Rangirkhari and the National Highway area by 14 November. Following the notice, several traders began removing their belongings and shop materials voluntarily, anticipating the eviction drive.

However, as several shops continued to occupy public footpaths even after the deadline, the civic body proceeded with the demolition operation on Saturday.

The drive has drawn considerable attention in the city, although the eviction process has remained peaceful so far. The operation is expected to continue across the designated areas until the encroachments are cleared.

It remains to be seen how effectively the drive restores public access to Silchar’s footpaths and whether the civic body can ensure that they remain free from encroachment in the long run.