Bengaluru, 10 July

During his rounds in the City on Friday, Chief Minister DK Shivakumar alleged that there was a “mafia” allotting space to street vendors, claiming that rowdies were illegally collecting money from the hawkers. 

“We've received detailed information about this,” he said. 

He reiterated that the government would identify and create separate zones for street vendors and that push carts would also be distributed. 

“This will not affect their livelihood and will also protect the rights of pedestrians,” he added. 

Praising Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda for spearheading the initiative, he said the entire State government was backing the drive.

“When I was the Bengaluru Minister, I called all MLAs from BJP, JD(S), Congress and discussed street vendors. Everyone agreed unanimously that vendors causing traffic problems should be cleared," he said. "We are not saying street vendors should not exist. We will designate side roads and other roads for them. They can do business and go home in the evening with their pushcarts. They cannot put up tents and sit permanently. If someone sets up shop on the main road and puts up a cover, it's not possible.

Justifying the clearance drive, he said, “Over the last three years, more than 900 pedestrians have lost their lives due to (insufficient footpaths).

"The Supreme Court has given clear directions to us… That's why we are taking this decision. Some decisions may be harsh for a few people going forward, but were necessary in the larger public interest," he added.

Shivakumar also said that a decision on the long-pending Jayanagar Market project would be taken soon.

“Half of the building has already been constructed, while the remaining work is still pending. The rest of the project will be taken up shortly under an appropriate scheme. We will protect public assets while ensuring convenience and respect for citizens,” he added.