GVMC to set up street vending zones amid Operation Lungs

The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has begun identifying locations for designated street vending zones as part of its ongoing encroachment clearance initiative, known as Operation Lungs. Officials have earmarked 21 sites for this purpose and are actively seeking more vacant land to ensure that each of the city’s 98 wards has at least one designated vending area.

So far, the initiative has resulted in the removal of nearly 3,000 encroachments, primarily targeting street vendors accused of obstructing pedestrian pathways and roads. The GVMC stated that the operation aims to enhance public safety and convenience.

However, critics, including political parties and civil society groups, argue that the evictions disproportionately impact low-income vendors who depend on roadside sales for their livelihoods.

In addition to these efforts, the GVMC has launched a survey to establish eligibility criteria for recognizing street vendors. Officials have indicated that this study is nearing completion.

GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg emphasized that the operation is not directed at any specific group. “Unauthorized stalls create hazards and unhygienic conditions. Our goal is to remove unsafe stalls and provide proper vending zones to support livelihoods,” he stated.

The Human Rights Forum has condemned the evictions, claiming they violate the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act of 2014. Forum leaders have called for a halt to the removals, fair surveys, consultations with vendors, the issuance of certificates for eligible vendors, and compensation for lost income.

Janasena Party State General Secretary Bolisetty Satyanarayana proposed a regulated system for street vending that includes fixed operating hours, mandatory municipal and FSSAI licenses, strict hygiene regulations, regular monitoring, penalties for violations, and transparent stall allocation through tenders.

“These measures would protect livelihoods while ensuring safe and hygienic food. Visakhapatnam must implement them immediately,” he asserted.