Chandigarh: The town vending committee (TVC) Friday decided to allot vending sites to all eligible street vendors through a draw of lots on July 18 at the municipal corporation office in Sector 17. A public notice will be issued before the exercise begins.To comply with Supreme Court directions, the committee also resolved to allot vending sites in designated vending zones to vendors who have been reclassified from the Essential Service Provider (ESP) category to the non-ESP category.At its meeting, the TVC unanimously approved the formation of a joint committee comprising representatives of street vendors, market associations, the architecture department, the MC and elected TVC members. The panel will conduct a comprehensive assessment of all vending sites, including model vending zones, to evaluate their feasibility and ensure proper planning before further development and allotments.The committee also stressed the need to strengthen infrastructure at vending zones. It directed that all such zones be equipped with adequate lighting, safe drinking water, clearly demarcated vending spaces, public toilets and CCTV surveillance within a stipulated time frame.Chairing the meeting, the municipal commissioner warned that any undue delay in providing these amenities would invite action against the responsible MC officials.To improve visibility and accessibility, the TVC decided to install directional signboards at prominent locations and widely publicise vending zone locations through various media platforms.Reaffirming the civic body’s commitment to implementing Supreme Court directions, the commissioner said the MC was working towards a transparent, orderly and inclusive street vending system that protects vendors’ livelihoods while balancing the interests of traders and the public.
