The State Government has released the Uttarakhand street vendors (protection of livelihood and regulation of street vending) rules, which if implemented effectively, could resolve problems being faced by both citizens and the vendors. However, considering the anomalies in the regulation of street vendors in Dehradun city and factors like political interference, it remains to be seen whether these rules can be implemented effectively.
According to Urban Development secretary DS Garbyal, these rules will be applicable to all municipal corporations, municipalities and Nagar Panchayats in the State. These will also be aimed at protecting the livelihoods of the street vendors. The first and second appeal officers have been deputed to resolve any related dispute. The district magistrate will be the first appeal officer for municipal corporations and municipalities while the Pargana magistrate will be the first appeal officer for Nagar Panchayat.
The commissioner concerned will be the second appeal officer for municipal corporations and municipalities while the district magistrate will be the second appeal officer for Nagar Panchayat. As per these rules, any person will not be allowed to occupy any public area or use a cart to display or sell items other than in areas demarcated for this purpose. Vending zones and bazaars have been identified and demarcated in all areas under urban local bodies. These have been divided into non-prohibited vending area, controlled vending area and vending-free area.
The city vending committee to be formed by each UlB will undertake digitalised photo survey of all the vendors and list them. A survey of the vendors again will be undertaken at least once in five years. Each vendor will be issued an identification card. The 12-member city vending committee will be headed by the Mukhya Nagar Adhikari/executive officer concerned. This committee will also monitor the facilities provided to the street vendors. Provision has also been made in the rules to initiate penal action against any street vendor found doing business without authorisation.