Hubballi: Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) evicted more than 300 roadside shops across Dharwad during an anti-encroachment drive on Saturday and Sunday, triggering protests and political criticism over the absence of alternative sites for vendors.
HDMC said roadside vendors narrowed roads, obstructed traffic and dumped waste in public spaces. Senior Congress leader Deepak Chinchore said the action deprived hundreds of families dependent on roadside businesses of income, leaving them struggling to meet basic food needs. He said the corporation had earlier permitted vendors to operate at these locations. Voice for Justice president and senior advocate BD Hiremath said Supreme Court had issued directions against evicting street vendors overnight without alternative arrangements. He said vendors should be educated about preventing encroachments and maintaining cleanliness while being allotted suitable business spaces.
Accumulated garbage attracted stray cattle, pigs and dogs, inconveniencing residents. It alleged many vendors ignored repeated appeals to maintain cleanliness and operate from designated vending zones. Calling the drive unscientific, he sought its immediate suspension and alternative sites with basic facilities. Hiremath urged HDMC to balance the public’s right to unobstructed roads with vendors’ livelihood concerns. He demanded suspension of the drive pending a meeting to resolve the issue.