Shimla Municipal Corporation seeks suggestions from public on new street vendor policy

Shimla: Shimla Municipal Corporation is inviting suggestions from residents to formulate a new street vendor policy for the city. Residents can give their feedback through letter or email till October 3. The policy aims to regulate street vending and streamline the allocation of vending spaces.

Municipal Commissioner Bhupinder Atri said the new policy will designate specific areas marked by blue lines for registered street vendors. “We are seeking suggestions from the public to ensure a good policy,” Atri said. He said councillors were also asked for their suggestions during a special house meeting in August.

The vending policy is in its final stages and is expected to be implemented soon. As per the policy, the Municipal Corporation has conducted a survey to identify both vending and non-vending areas in Shimla. Street vendors will be allowed to set up their shops only in designated areas. The registration number and photograph of each vendor will be displayed at the stall, ensuring compliance with the rules. Vendors operating outside these areas will be fined and only one person per family will be issued a vending license.

Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya has already directed the corporation to complete the process by December 30. He stressed that widows, specially abled persons and people from economically weaker sections will be given priority. He also emphasized the importance of giving priority to local vendors in allotment of vending places. The policy is expected to bring order in street vending in Shimla, benefiting both vendors and residents and ensuring that public places are well maintained.