Chandigarh, May 7:- In a significant step towards ensuring welfare, support and better regulation of street vending activities in the city, the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh today organised a special facilitation camp for street vendors in Sectors 22 and 23, Chandigarh.

The camp was conducted with the objective of addressing issues related to vending operations, basic amenities and public welfare measures for registered street vendors.

MC Joint Commissioner Dr. Himanshu Gupta and other senior officials from different wings of the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh actively interacted with the vendors, listened to their grievances and invited valuable suggestions regarding vending-related concerns.

During the interaction, the vendors were informed about their rights and responsibilities under the provisions of the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014, the Rules framed thereunder and the Street Vendors Bye-Laws, 2018. The officials assured the vendors that the Municipal Corporation is committed to providing necessary facilities and essential amenities in designated vending zones as per the prescribed norms and regulations.

The officers further emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness, avoiding encroachments beyond permitted areas and ensuring smooth movement for pedestrians and commuters in public spaces. Vendors were encouraged to carry out their business activities in an organised and lawful manner while cooperating with civic authorities.

The Joint Commissioner emphasized that all registered street vendors must possess Smart ID Cards issued by the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh. He informed that while some vendors have already obtained their Smart ID Cards, a large number of registered vendors are yet to complete the process. He directed all left-out registered street vendors to apply for and obtain their Smart ID Cards within the next 15 days. He further made it clear that after the expiry of the stipulated period, challans will also be issued to registered street vendors found conducting business without Smart ID Cards.

The officials assured the street vendors that all genuine grievances and demands raised during the camp would be examined sympathetically and suitable action would be taken strictly in accordance with the applicable Act, Rules and Bye-Laws.

The initiative was appreciated by the street vendors, who welcomed the Corporation’s efforts to establish regular communication and promote a balanced approach towards livelihood protection and urban management in the city.