In a bid to tackle traffic congestion and create organized spaces for street vendors, Pune is all set to introduce hawker markets at eight designated locations throughout the city. This ambitious initiative aims to not only address the needs of local street vendors but also to alleviate the long-standing traffic issues that have plagued Pune for years.
The idea for these hawker markets was born out of a suggestion by Health Minister Tanaji Sawant, who recognized the critical need for structured market spaces to accommodate street vendors. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has acted swiftly in response to this suggestion, with ongoing planning efforts to turn this vision into reality. Recently, Minister Sawant reviewed the progress of this initiative and expressed his satisfaction with the momentum it has gained.
The traffic situation in Pune has long been a concern, exacerbated by the presence of numerous street vendors operating without designated spaces. To tackle this issue head-on, Minister Sawant proposed that the PMC should provide essential amenities at these market locations, making it easier for street vendors to operate efficiently. Additionally, he suggested that daily maintenance tasks should be excluded from the vendor’s responsibilities to ensure the cleanliness and upkeep of the areas.
During discussions with Pune Municipal Commissioner Vikram Kumar, Health Minister Tanaji Sawant also addressed other concerns related to traffic and encroachments. One of the key issues discussed was the encroachments near Shankar Maharaj Math, which have been causing inconvenience to devotees. The authorities are keen on resolving this issue to ensure a smoother experience for the people visiting the Math.
In the first phase of this ambitious project, eight locations have been identified, with six of them already prepared for immediate use. Further locations are also under consideration, and these designated areas will lay the foundation for the hawker market project. These markets will not only provide a designated space for hawkers but also serve as weekly farmers’ markets on Saturdays and Sundays, adding a new dimension to the city’s vibrant street culture.
Deputy Commissioner Madhav Jagtap, who is overseeing the project’s progress, provided valuable insights into the plan’s execution. He mentioned that the markets in areas like Baner, Bavdhan, and Kondhwa would soon be operational, bringing relief to both street vendors and commuters struggling with traffic congestion.
