Ahmedabad AMC Bans Roadside Fruit, Vegetable Sales

AHMEDABAD : Ahmedabad’s roads may soon see fewer vegetable carts and makeshift fruit stalls as the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has banned the sale of fruits and vegetables on public roads and footpaths, citing worsening traffic congestion and inconvenience to pedestrians.

The AMC Estate Department has issued a public notice directing all fruit and vegetable vendors to conduct business only from vegetable markets established by the civic body or other authorised locations.

The move comes amid complaints that pushcarts and temporary roadside markets occupy road space, particularly during evening hours, leading to traffic bottlenecks and making it difficult for pedestrians and motorists to move freely.

According to the notice issued by the Deputy Municipal Commissioner, selling vegetables or fruits on public roads, footpaths or at any location that obstructs traffic will be treated as illegal encroachment.

“Selling fruits and vegetables on public roads and footpaths creates serious traffic problems and causes inconvenience to pedestrians,” the AMC said in its public notice.

The civic body has warned vendors of strict action if they continue roadside sales. Enforcement measures include confiscation of carts and goods besides the imposition of heavy fines.

The AMC has also instructed vendors to shift their operations to designated vegetable markets created by the Corporation across the city. Officials said these markets provide authorised spaces for vendors and are intended to prevent roadside encroachment.

The Estate Department’s decision follows concerns that several vendors continue to avoid designated markets and instead park pushcarts along busy roads to attract customers.

The ban is expected to intensify enforcement against roadside vending in areas witnessing frequent traffic congestion. Vendors found operating outside authorised locations could face immediate action from AMC teams.

The civic body has urged fruit and vegetable sellers to comply with the directive and conduct their businesses only from designated or authorised locations.