The Bold Voice of J&K

Street vendors’ encroachment on footpaths causes distress in Jammu; citizens demand immediate action

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The issue of street vendors encroaching on footpaths in Jammu has become a growing concern for residents and authorities alike. With footpaths increasingly occupied by vendors selling goods, pedestrians are forced to walk on busy roads, making their daily commute hazardous. This situation not only inconveniences the public but also contributes to the worsening of traffic congestion and the risk of accidents.
Many residents have voiced their frustrations, demanding immediate intervention from local authorities. The absence of proper
regulation regarding the placement of vendors on footpaths has led to the blocking of essential walking spaces, leaving pedestrians with no choice but to step onto roads. As a result, people are exposed to greater danger from fast-moving vehicles, and the risk of accidents increases, particularly in high-traffic areas.

Mandeep Sharma, one of the concerned citizens, criticized the lack of proper regulation and said, “The vendors should be allowed to work, but their stalls shouldn’t block pedestrian spaces. Pedestrians, especially the elderly and children, are the ones who suffer the most. The administration needs to find a way to balance the needs of the vendors and the safety of the public. In addition to the safety concerns, the traffic situation is also worsening.”

Hemraj Katiyar highlighted that as pedestrians walk on the road, it not only causes inconvenience but also disrupts the flow of traffic. Vehicles are forced to slow down or swerve to avoid hitting pedestrians, leading to frequent traffic jams and adding to the overall chaos. The growing number of such incidents calls for urgent intervention by the authorities to prevent further escalation. The problem, however, is not just about pedestrians’ safety but also about the livelihood of the vendors. Street vending is a primary source of income for many, and completely removing them from public spaces could create economic challenges for these individuals. Hence, a solution must consider both the safety of pedestrians and the livelihood of vendors.

Surjeet Singh Thakur suggested that a designated space for street vendors could resolve the issue. By creating specific zones where vendors can set up their stalls, the footpaths can remain free for pedestrians, reducing the risks of accidents. Proper regulation of vending zones would allow vendors to continue their work while ensuring pedestrian safety.

Subhash Shastri wants the local administration to act swiftly and implement policies that balance public safety and vendors’ needs. A regulatory framework that ensures vendors are allocated specific spaces, perhaps in markets or specific areas, would not only maintain order but also provide vendors with a structured environment to operate. As the issue continues to affect daily life in Jammu, the urgency for administrative action becomes clearer. Citizens and vendors alike need a solution that allows for safe pedestrian movement and orderly street vending. Ensuring clear footpaths while accommodating the needs of vendors will require a well-thought-out approach from the local authorities, addressing both the public’s safety concerns and the economic needs of street vendors. The solution lies in finding a middle ground that works for both the public and the vendors, with clear guidelines, proper zoning, and enforcement. Without swift and effective action, the issue of footpath encroachment in Jammu will continue to grow, causing further distress and disruption to daily life.

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