Temporary market shed is a place to vend for genuine street vendors, says MAHUD Minister
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 22 2022:
MAHUD Minister, Yumnam Khemchand has reaffirmed that the temporary market shed constructed by the Government is to provide a market place for genuine street vendors and not for those with money and power.
Addressing a press meet held today in connection with the street vendors issue, Y Khemchand maintained that acknowledging the hardships of the street vendors, the temporary market shed was constructed to provide a place for the street vendors to vend under the direction of the Chief Minister.
With regards to the chaotic situation of who will vend in the temporary market shed, around six thousand applicants have submitted applications to acquire the license for the said market shed to Imphal Municipal Council (IMC) ever since he took the charge as the MAHUD Minister, he added.
He went on to inform that a committee was formed comprising SP Traffic, Imphal West SP, Director Transport, MAHUD and IMC officials under the guidance of the Chief Minister N Biren Singh.
He continued that the committee conducted a detailed survey for a month and found out that only 1472 street vendors were eligible to sell in the temporary market shed.
The Minister, while expressing concern on the disturbing situation with regards to the temporary market issue, maintained it has been found that groups are formed to vend in this marketplace which is designated for the street vendors who are trying to earn a source of livelihood to support their respective families.
The authorities concerned have also received information that some people who are not street vendors are forcibly trying to secure a spot in the said marketplace which is really fortunate, he added.
The Minister made an earnest appeal to all concerned to maintain a peaceful atmosphere and let the genuine street vendors vend in the temporary market and cautioned of adequate actions against the violators.
'Temporary market is a place for street vendors and there are no plans to provide a permanent spot or area number and is based on first come first serve basis', the Minister said.
He also maintained that the Government is taking up various measures to avoid any form of inconvenience and to maintain a cleaner picture of the Imphal city ahead of the upcoming Sangai Festival where tourists will visit the State, he appealed to all to adhere to Governmental norms.