Surat Grapples With Encroachments, Eyes Vending Markets for Solution

Surat : Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) faces a persistent challenge – clearing encroachments from designated “no-encroachment zones” across the city. Despite efforts, only half of the 118 zones are encroachment-free. While demands to expand “no-hawking zones” grow, the SMC struggles to fully address existing congestion on these limited stretches.

In a bid to tackle the issue, the SMC plans to establish designated vending markets across the city. The idea is to relocate street vendors to these markets, freeing up public spaces.

“For many years, plans for a vending market existed only on paper,” says a spokesperson for the SMC. “Now, we’re moving forward with a new policy to establish vending markets in all zones, with a focus on this initiative.”

However, the initial rollout will be temporary. “One vending market will be provided in each zone on a purely temporary basis,” clarifies the SMC officer. “A pilot project will commence after the Lok Sabha elections.”

The SMC is also prioritizing women vendors. Preparations are underway for a dedicated “Women Vendors Market” near the Pal RTO office.

“A new policy will be formulated to allocate space to vendors relocated from encroachment zones,” explains the officer. “The municipal plot near the RTO office has been allotted to women vendors for a temporary period of three months. They can set up food and beverage stalls at a nominal rent.”

The urgency to accommodate more vendors is evident. “Over the last few days, JCBs, tractors, and other vehicles from the Rander zone of the SMC have been working on leveling the space near the Pal RTO. This intensified activity suggests the market might accommodate more women vendors soon,” concludes the spokesperson.

This initiative by the SMC holds promise for a more organized public space in Surat. However, its success hinges on the effectiveness of the temporary markets and the long-term vending policy that is yet to be formulated.