Pune: PMC Cracks Down On FC Road Footpath Stalls, Warns Vendors Of Fine Hike By ₹10,000-₹15,000

Pune's PMC has ramped up its surprise anti-encroachment campaign against vendors and shopkeepers who have taken over footpaths along the bustling Fergusson College Road (FC Road), warning that repeat offenders face stiffer fines and regular inspections. This intensified crackdown follows the ongoing presence of temporary stalls and commercial setups on the pedestrian pathway, making navigation difficult for pedestrians.

During the latest drive, PMC teams cleared unauthorized materials and temporary structures, including wooden stalls draped in blue and yellow plastic tarpaulins. A PMC official, speaking on condition of anonymity, explained that vendors will not be permitted to return to the same locations after enforcement action. If vendors persist in setting up stalls, the fine, previously ₹5,000, will now range from ₹10,000 to ₹15,000.

Surprise inspections will be conducted routinely, either daily or every two to three days, to deter vendors from immediately resuming business after the civic team leaves. "If they continue putting up stalls, our team will dismantle the material," the official stated. The cyclical pattern of removal and return underscores the significant challenge the civic administration faces in regulating vendor presence on busy streets like FC Road.

Many small vendors argue that the footpath is integral to their business and that relocating could severely impact their earnings. Yashraj Kumar, a shopkeeper, lamented, "We acknowledge the footpath is for pedestrians, yet it's also where our customers come. If we relocate to an interior location, our business could suffer. We are prepared to comply with the rules, but we need guidance on where we can legally set up our stalls."

Others contend that the repeated enforcement actions fail to address the root issue. Kunal More, another vendor, remarked, "Each time the civic team arrives, we disassemble our stall, only to return after the action subsides. We do this because this location provides a consistent flow of customers and is our only source of livelihood."

Financial concerns loom large for vendors, with Zain Khan noting that even fines or the loss of temporary structures can be a substantial burden for small vendors. "We are not intentionally inconveniencing pedestrians. We seek to earn a living. The PMC should provide a viable alternative to the footpath for legal vending," he added.

Arpit Marne, another vendor, called for a more comprehensive solution, suggesting that the administration create designated vending spaces if enforcement is to proceed. "If the PMC seeks our permanent removal, we must be given an alternative location to conduct our business legally. We will adhere to the rules if a practical solution is presented," Marne concluded.