Sun May 04 17:26:15 UTC 2025: ## Chennai Residents Protest New Street Vending Zones

**Chennai, India (May 5, 2025)** – The Greater Chennai Corporation’s recent designation of 150 vending and 188 non-vending zones is facing significant backlash from residents and vendors alike. A year after the formation of its vending committee, the plan, which is yet to be officially gazetted by the Tamil Nadu government, has sparked widespread protests due to concerns over inadequate planning, political interference, and delays in issuing updated vendor identification cards.

Residents in several areas, including Anna Nagar West Extension and Ranganathan Garden, have voiced strong objections to the locations of proposed vending zones, citing concerns about increased traffic congestion, garbage accumulation, and safety risks, particularly for schoolchildren. The Corporation has acknowledged receiving these objections and stated that the town vending committee will review them.

Critics also point to a lack of clarity in the zoning norms and a significant reduction in the number of vending zones compared to a previous assessment (900 in 2021 vs. 150 now). G. Selva of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) argued that reducing vending zones negatively impacts low-income individuals and the overall economy.

Furthermore, street vendors themselves are complaining about significant delays in receiving corrected identity cards. Many vendors reported submitting applications for corrections months ago, but new cards are yet to be issued, despite Corporation claims that over 32,000 cards were issued at camps in February. Vendors also expressed concerns about the lack of support and potential competition if they’re forced to relocate.

The Corporation maintains that regional committees are being formed to better manage vending zones and that they are addressing the outstanding card issues. However, allegations of political interference in the process remain, with vendors claiming that councillors and ruling party members have influenced the zone designations. The Corporation denies these allegations. The situation remains tense as residents and vendors await the government’s final approval of the vending zone plan.

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