Shimla’s Lower Bazaar declared no-vending zone

The Lower Bazaar in Shimla has been declared a no-vending zone by the Town Vending Committee (TVC) of the Municipal Corporation, Shimla. Bhuwan Sharma, Joint Commissioner, Municipal Corporation, Shimla, stated that this decision was taken to prevent any major mishaps, such as fires or medical emergencies in the congested market area. The move aligns with the town vending policy, which mandates roads to remain clear and free from encroachments.

To support affected vendors, the TVC has planned to relocate them to suitable vending zones near the market. These zones will be marked with blue lines and allocated to registered vendors. According to Sharma, the marking work is nearing completion and is expected to be finished by Sunday.

Earlier this year, Shimla’s TVC had implemented a policy to designate areas as vending and non-vending zones. Some parts of Lower Bazaar were initially identified as vending zones, but this classification has now been revoked. The blue lines demarcating vending zones in the area will be removed.

In addition to the reorganisation of vending zones, the civic body has introduced daily mock drills in the market to enhance disaster preparedness. This initiative aims to ensure efficient responses during emergencies.

The Municipal Corporation is currently drafting a comprehensive street vendors policy for Shimla. Under this policy, vendors will only be allowed to operate in designated vending zones, while selling goods in non-vending zones will attract hefty fines. The policy intends to streamline street vending and ensure safety in high-density areas like Lower Bazaar.