Kolkata, 17 May (H.S.): Railway authorities carried out a major anti-encroachment drive near Howrah Railway Station late Saturday night, demolishing around 150 illegal shops and temporary structures to ease passenger movement and improve security in the area, officials said.

According to railway sources, several makeshift shops and unauthorised structures had been occupying space outside the station for a long time, causing inconvenience to commuters and creating congestion around the busy transport hub.

A large police force was deployed during the operation and the entire area was cordoned off before bulldozers were used to remove the encroachments one by one.

Officials said some shopkeepers had removed their belongings in advance, while goods belonging to several others were affected during the demolition drive.

Railway authorities said notices had been served earlier asking the encroachers to vacate the area. However, as the encroachments remained, the administration carried out the operation following a court order.

Railway Police said the drive was aimed at ensuring passenger safety and smooth movement in and around the station premises.

Officials added that overcrowding and illegal occupation of public space had been causing persistent problems for commuters for a long time.

While a large section of local passengers welcomed the action, some shopkeepers raised questions over the timing of the notices and the manner in which the demolition was conducted.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey