Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar revealed plans to prohibit street vending on Bengaluru’s main and sub-roads to enhance pedestrian movement in the city. This initiative is part of a new policy being developed to address encroachments on footpaths and ensure pedestrian safety. Shivakumar emphasized the need for a comprehensive footpath policy to tackle the challenges faced by citizens due to street vendors occupying footpaths.
The government will take action against abandoned vehicles parked for extended periods on roads by towing and relocating them to designated sites. The responsibility for this action will be with the police, with identified locations including Bellahalli, Bidaganahalli, Biddanahalli, and Sondekoppa. Each corporation has been provided with two vehicles to remove illegally parked vehicles, especially in no-parking zones.
Furthermore, designated spaces will be allocated for vendors while keeping footpaths clear for public use. Specific roads will be identified for street vending, a move supported by legislators from all parties. Around 60,000 street vendors have registered, with nearly 30,000 requesting vending vehicles. The government has floated a tender for this purpose. Only vendors with valid identity cards will be permitted to operate, and unauthorized vendors will face strict action.
To address the issue of illegal flex banners in the city, the Deputy CM proposed imposing fines ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh per banner. Despite warnings, flex banners related to personal events are still being put up without permission. Specific locations have been designated for advertisements, and permissions must be obtained for their use. Decisions on the opening and closing times of parks within municipal limits will be made in consultation with local MLAs.
In response to demands for high allocations per ward, Shivakumar stated that the requests were excessive and would be reviewed. Regarding reports of a candidate filing nomination early for the Davanagere by-election, he mentioned that he would comment only after obtaining complete information.
