In a dramatic clash between licensed street vendors and civic authorities, Ahmedabad’s Bhadra Plaza vendors are facing eviction during the peak Diwali shopping season, raising critical concerns about livelihoods and civic management. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has embarked on a contentious drive to remove encroachments, sparking protests from over 800 vendors who claim they hold valid street vending licences. Many vendors argue that AMC’s actions have deprived them of their legal rights, particularly at a time when they depend on heightened sales to support their families. Since October 7, vendors have reported heavy fines and confiscations, severely impacting their business.
The AMC’s move to curb alleged encroachments comes after local complaints of overcrowding, especially around Bhadrakali Temple. However, vendors argue that their displacement is unjustified, given that the court had earlier directed AMC to allot space for them. According to the Bhadra Chowk Heritage Natural Market association, nearly 372 vendors have been trading here for years, and this eviction not only threatens their livelihoods but also disrupts the bustling market that attracts over 25,000 shoppers daily. The financial strain on these vendors, especially those who took loans to stock goods for the festive season, is significant. Many vendors fear they may be pushed into financial ruin.
Civic authorities maintain that their actions align with legal and civic responsibility. According to AMC officials, the court’s observation permitted street vending but did not specify particular spaces. They have also responded to complaints about encroachments in the area, stating that their focus is on ensuring pedestrian access and civic order, particularly for the safety of temple visitors. The conflict underscores a complex intersection of legal rights, public convenience, and municipal governance, especially in areas dense with historical and commercial activity.
The eviction drive raises sustainability concerns on urban governance and how it impacts the informal economy. Small vendors, such as those at Bhadra Plaza, form a crucial part of Ahmedabad’s socio-economic fabric, promoting local commerce and reducing the environmental footprint through short supply chains. A more sustainable approach to managing urban spaces could involve better planning and integration of vendors into city designs, ensuring that economic growth does not disproportionately affect vulnerable communities.
