Redefining Public Space for Urban Vendors in Streets of Delhi

Abstract

There lies a big debate on the space for hawkers at any public space who sell goods on streets. Street vendors often referred to as ‘encroachers,’ struggle to find their own space in the streets. The concept of Bazaar is an intrinsic characteristic of India. Yet the wave of globalisation has influenced the expanding cities to pursue its capitalistic motives and shun vending activities from the public arena. These vendors act as an important link between producers and consumers. Their small entrepreneurial activities start with investing small capital with hard work for survival. Street vending largely contributes to the informal urban economy and benefits the public who are dependent on them. Yet they are constantly interfered by local goons or policemen who charge hefty fees illegally. This paper elaborates the working conditions of street vendors in two busy market places of Delhi namely Ajmal Khan Road, Karol Bagh and Nehru Place Pedestrian Plaza. In most court cases, street vendors fight for their right, but most often relocated to off-street market places. This paper deals with the importance of legitimising the profession by providing dedicated hawking zones in the city development plans. Various factors underlying this issue are ineffectiveness of the national policies, lack of accordance among various authorities, and improper coordination.