NEWS

Himachal moves towards better regulation of street vendors: ID cards and dedicated zones proposed

The Himachal Pradesh Street Vendor Committee has taken significant steps to improve the management and regulation of street vendors by proposing mandatory ID cards and creating designated zones for vendors across the state. This proposal, which applies to both urban and rural areas, aims to streamline operations and provide better organization. The decision was discussed during a meeting held at the Assembly Secretariat on Thursday, led by Industry Minister Harshvardhan Chauhan.

In the meeting, the committee reviewed the Street Vendor Policy introduced by the Central Government in 2014, alongside Himachal Pradesh’s localized version from 2016. Members also offered suggestions on refining the policy’s implementation, particularly in rural areas. The focus is on reducing congestion and improving public spaces by developing specific zones for vendors to operate more efficiently.

Seeking Public Input Before Final Decisions

Before finalizing any measures, the committee will consult legal experts and gather feedback from street vendors and the general public. A 15-day window has been provided for suggestions and objections. The next meeting, scheduled for November 4, will focus on public responses and legal recommendations, ensuring that all concerns are addressed before moving forward.

Along with ID cards, the committee is considering issuing licenses to street vendors to further regulate and identify them. BJP MLA Randhir Sharma highlighted that the Street Vendor Act, first introduced in 2014 and revised in 2016, may undergo additional amendments to close gaps in its current implementation, particularly in areas like the Municipal Corporation Shimla. These changes aim to create a more organized and fair environment for street vendors throughout the state.

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