Traders Vacate Long-Occupied Shops Near Agartala Netaji Chowmuhani After Assurance of Rehabilitation
By Our Correspondent
Agartala, June 22, 2026
More than 50 shop owners operating near Netaji Chowmuhani, beside Rupashi Multiplex in Agartala, have begun vacating their shops following assurances from the Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) and the state government regarding alternative rehabilitation arrangements.
The traders, many of whom have been conducting business in the area for nearly 35 to 40 years, started removing their goods and electrical equipment on Sunday after receiving a final three-day notice from the authorities. The shops are located on government land and are set to be cleared as part of an urban development and road improvement initiative.
According to representatives of the traders, the shop owners had initially resisted the eviction drive because no concrete alternative arrangement had been offered. Many feared losing their only source of livelihood and were unwilling to leave the marketplace where they had built their businesses over several decades.
The situation, however, changed after a delegation of affected traders met Agartala Mayor Dipak Majumder and later discussed the matter with Chief Minister Professor (Dr) Manik Saha. During these meetings, the traders were reportedly assured that the government would take steps to provide an alternative arrangement for their rehabilitation.
Following these assurances, the shop owners decided to cooperate with the administration and began vacating the premises voluntarily. Traders said they had dismantled portions of their establishments and removed valuable equipment to avoid damage during the demolition process.
A shop owners’ representative stated that while the traders understand the government's development plans, they expect the promised rehabilitation measures to be implemented at the earliest. He emphasized that most of the affected families depend entirely on these businesses for their income and livelihood.
The traders also pointed out that although the land belongs to the government and underground drainage infrastructure exists beneath the structures, many families have earned their living from these shops for decades. They expressed hope that the government would honour its commitment and provide a suitable alternative location soon.
The development marks a significant breakthrough after months of uncertainty and negotiations between the traders and the authorities. While the eviction process is now proceeding peacefully, the affected shop owners remain focused on securing a permanent rehabilitation plan to ensure that their businesses and livelihoods are protected.
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