GVMC to launch three smart vending zones by March
The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) plans to launch three smart street vending zones by March. The move aims to organise vending activity and reduce encroachments on roads and footpaths.
GVMC finalised tenders in the first week of February. Officials are now standardising the container-based kiosk design for eligible vendors.
The zones will come up at Yendada, Old Jail Road and near the Duvvada Flyover. The Yendada and Duvvada sites will house 70 units each. Old Jail Road will accommodate 110 units, the highest among the three.
The GVMC council approved the proposal last month. The plan follows the enforcement drive under Operation Life to Urban Green Spaces (LUNGS). During the drive, authorities removed unauthorised vendors from several stretches. Officials said the zones will provide space for genuine vendors.
Commissioner Ketan Garg said GVMC has appointed a contractor. The corporation will build pathways and ensure drinking water supply. It will also create basic public amenities. The kiosks will use solar power and include CCTV surveillance.
GVMC and the Mission for Elimination of Poverty in Municipal Areas (MEPMA) will each fund one-third of the project. Beneficiary vendors will bear the remaining share. MEPMA officials are identifying eligible vendors for allotment.
Meanwhile, GVMC’s Urban Community Wing is surveying the city. It plans to identify 21 more locations for similar vending zones.