The launch of Bengaluru’s Safe Footpath Campaign on Wednesday triggered protests from street vendors across the city, with many accusing civic authorities of carrying out selective enforcement without providing alternative vending spaces.
While the drive progressed smoothly in areas such as MG Road, Swami Vivekananda Road, Horamavu and Banaswadi, where officials removed illegal advertisement boards, staircases and extended roofs encroaching on footpaths, it faced strong opposition in commercial hubs including Majestic, Vijayanagar and Sampige Road.
Vendors fear loss of livelihood
Street vendors, many of whom claimed to have been operating for over three decades, questioned why the eviction drive had begun before designated vending zones were established. Several displayed identity cards issued by the civic body, arguing that they had been officially recognised as vendors.
As officials removed stalls selling clothes, fruits, vegetables and other goods, many vendors, including elderly women, broke down after their merchandise was seized.
Vendors said losing even a single day’s earnings would severely affect their families and urged authorities to consider their livelihoods before taking action.
Allegations of selective enforcement
Several vendors alleged that the campaign unfairly targeted hawkers while ignoring illegally parked vehicles and permanent encroachments on footpaths. Others claimed shops displaying photographs of local political leaders were spared while neighbouring stalls were removed.
Some vendors challenged civic officials to first clear abandoned vehicles and other obstructions before removing street businesses.
Government defends campaign
Greater Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda defended the initiative, calling it a necessary step to reclaim footpaths for pedestrians despite acknowledging it was politically difficult.
He appealed to the public to voluntarily remove encroachments, saying pedestrians have a fundamental right to safe and accessible footpaths. He added that while the campaign may inconvenience some people, it is intended to improve public safety and ensure footpaths remain usable for all.
By evening, several vendors had returned to commercial areas such as Majestic and Sampige Road and resumed business despite the day’s enforcement drive.