By Hasan Hadi
Dehradun, 26 Jun: The demolition of shops in the historic Inamullah Building has begun as part of a road widening project between Saharanpur Chowk and Tehsil Chowk, with authorities marking multiple shops for removal. The road is set to be expanded to 24 metres in width, which officials claim will help reduce traffic congestion in the city.
However, this move has evoked strong criticism from both local shopkeepers and social activists, who argue that simply widening roads and cutting trees is not a sustainable solution to Dehradun’s traffic problems.
Social activist Anoop Nautiyal, speaking to Garhwal Post, asserted, “The government must shift its focus from tree-cutting and expressway construction to developing a multi-modal public transport system. This is the direction the world is taking- focusing on public transport, reducing encroachments, and creating pedestrian-friendly cities. But our approach seems outdated.”
He also pointed to previous development works, such as on Sahastradhara Road, where large-scale tree cutting ruined the natural beauty of the area. “Dehradun is known for its trees and greenery. We cannot afford to lose that in the name of development,” he added.
Meanwhile, shopkeepers in the Inamullah Building, some of whom have been running businesses there since before Independence, say they are being unfairly displaced. “I came from Afghanistan before 1947. I’ve been here ever since. Now the government wants to demolish my shop. Where will I go?” asked one elderly trader, clearly emotional.
Most of the shops in the building are on long-term rent, and traders claim they have received no compensation or alternative space in the new Adhat Bazaar being developed near Haridwar Bypass. Further confusion surrounds the building’s legal status, as it falls under the Waqf Board, whose chairman has remained unresponsive.
“We tried to reach him, but he refuses to speak on the matter,” a trader alleged. Shopkeepers also allege discriminatory practices and poor planning by the Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA). “Our shops are marked up to 16 metres deep, but on the opposite side of the road, only the footpath is being cleared. What kind of fairness is this?” questioned a shop owner.
Adding to their frustration, traders complain that MDDA officials are changing markings repeatedly. “One day they mark our shop, the next day they say it was a mistake and mark it again. This is mental harassment,” said another affected shopkeeper.
Amid growing concerns, citizens and experts are now calling for inclusive and long-term urban planning that protects, both, livelihoods and the environment. They urge the government to prioritise eco-friendly and people-first development, including investments in public buses, e-rickshaws, cycling infrastructure, and walkable roads.
