In a familiar scenario, all of SoBo was cleared of encroachments as the chief minister’s swearing-in took place at the Azad Maidan on Thursday. In fact, hawkers were cleared on Wednesday evening itself.

This is a familiar pattern where spaces are swept clean in double quick time for VIP visits. While security is only one aspect, it is as if the city puts its best face forward, with plants brought out to line streets and cosmetic changes through cover-ups and repairs done.