Bengaluru, March 20: Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced on Friday that a new policy will prohibit street vending on major roads and sub-roads throughout Bengaluru. This initiative aims to improve pedestrian movement in the city.
Speaking to the media after a meeting regarding budget preparations for the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) at Vidhana Soudha, Shivakumar, who also oversees the Bengaluru Development Department, stated that the government is working on a comprehensive footpath policy to address encroachment issues and ensure safe passage for pedestrians.
He noted that the presence of street vendors on footpaths has created difficulties for citizens. The Deputy Chief Minister also declared actions against abandoned vehicles parked on the streets. These vehicles will be towed to designated locations, with the police assigned to manage this task. Areas such as Bellahalli, Bidaganahalli, Biddanahalli, and Sondakoppa have been identified for this purpose, with plans to add more locations in the future.
Regarding vehicle towing, he mentioned that each corporation has been provided with two vehicles to remove illegally parked cars, especially in ‘no-parking’ zones. The government has decided to allocate designated spaces for street vendors while ensuring that footpaths remain completely clear for public use. Shivakumar indicated that specific roads will be identified where street vending will be permitted, a move that has received unanimous support from all party legislators.
So far, approximately 60,000 street vendors have registered, with around 30,000 requesting special vending vehicles. A tender for this has already been issued. He further stated that only vendors with valid identification will be allowed to operate, and strict action will be taken against those working without permission.
Vendors have been warned not to leave their carts on the streets overnight. If such carts are found abandoned after working hours, officials will seize them. The Deputy Chief Minister also proposed hefty fines to curb the increasing number of illegally placed flex banners throughout the city, suggesting penalties ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh per banner.
He remarked that despite repeated warnings, flex banners related to birthdays and other events are still being put up arbitrarily. The government has designated specific locations for advertising, and obtaining permission from relevant authorities will be mandatory for using these sites.
On the topic of civic management, Shivakumar mentioned that decisions regarding the opening and closing times of parks within the municipal limits will be made in consultation with local legislators. Responding to legislators requesting budget allocations of ₹5 to ₹10 crore for each ward, Shivakumar stated that these demands are excessive and will be reconsidered. When asked about reports of a candidate filing nominations ahead of the official announcement for the Davanagere by-election, he said he would comment once all information is available.
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