Shimla MC extends deadline for street vending policy suggestions

The Municipal Corporation of Shimla has extended the deadline for local residents to submit their suggestions on the town’s street vending policy until October 15. Originally set for October 3, the extension aims to encourage more input from the public regarding the policy, which is currently being formulated by the corporation.

Municipal Commissioner Bhupinder Kumar Attri emphasised that gathering public suggestions and objections is key to ensuring the policy reflects the community’s needs. Suggestions are being received daily via email and letters, with the goal of shaping the policy’s bylaws.

As part of the policy, a survey was conducted earlier this year to identify vending and non-vending zones across the town. Street vendors will be allowed to set up stalls only in designated vending zones, while those operating in non-vending zones or without a proper licence will face fines. Registered vendors will be assigned marked spaces, identified with blue lines, and their registration details and photographs will be displayed at the stalls. Additionally, only one person per family will be granted a licence to operate.

Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh has instructed the corporation to finalise the policy by December 30. A special meeting on the matter was held in August under the chairmanship of the Mayor of Shimla, discussing the number of vendors and zones identified for vending. Both the Municipal Corporation and the state government are seeking public input to guide the policy’s implementation across the state.