Despite a recent crackdown by the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) on street vendors in T Nagar, many have returned to their usual spots, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the city’s efforts to regulate street vending. While the GCC aims to implement designated vending zones, residents and officials express concerns about the lack of enforcement and potential health risks associated with unlicensed food stalls.
Street vendors selling prasad and souvenirs near the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, have been displaced since 2022 and are facing ongoing harassment from authorities. Despite appeals to various officials and legal challenges, they have not been allowed to set up their stalls, severely impacting their livelihoods. The vendors, who have been running from one place to another, allege confiscation of their items and false allegations of encroachment.
The PM SVANidhi scheme, launched in June 2020 to support street vendors impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, has achieved significant progress. Over 60% of the funds allocated to the scheme have been utilized, and over 84.51 lakh loans have been extended. The scheme has received the highest uptake from the fruits and vegetable sector.
