Shopkeepers have strongly criticized the Punjab government for demolishing the entire Bhati Bird Market near Data Darbar. They called the action an economic disaster that caused heavy financial losses and reportedly led to the deaths of several birds and animals.
The Lahore Development Authority (LDA) carried out the demolition early Wednesday morning as part of the Bhati Chowk remodeling project. Officials said the move aimed to remove encroachments and improve traffic flow in the busy area.
Traders Condemn Sudden Action
Traders at the Bhati Bird Market expressed deep anger over the sudden operation. One shopkeeper said, “The government has destroyed us economically. They came at dawn with heavy machinery and leveled all 152 shops within hours.” He added that many birds and animals were buried alive under the debris.
Another trader said shopkeepers had been in contact with the LDA and the deputy commissioner’s office before the operation. “Officials had promised compensation before any demolition,” he claimed. “But the teams arrived without warning and destroyed everything. We lost birds worth millions.”
LDA Justifies the Move
In response, an LDA spokesperson stated that the Bhati Bird Market was built illegally on 16 kanals of state land. The area, he said, is part of the Bhati Chowk remodeling project designed to ease congestion and reduce pollution.
He also denied claims of animal deaths. “Shopkeepers had already shifted their birds and goods before the demolition,” he said. “If anyone has evidence, they should present it to the authorities.”
Traders Appeal for Justice
Affected shopkeepers have appealed to the Chief Minister of Punjab to intervene. They demand full compensation for their losses and action against those responsible for what they describe as cruelty to animals and economic injustice.
The demolition of the Bhati Bird Market has sparked strong criticism, raising questions about the government’s planning, coordination, and treatment of small traders.
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