Dimapur, October 21: The presence of street vendors along National Highway-29 in the Purana Bazaar area during Durga Puja has raised concerns over traffic congestion and obstruction of public pathways, affecting the movement of commuters and pedestrians.
Shopkeepers in the area stated that the practice of setting up temporary stalls during Durga Puja has been an annual occurrence, adding that vendors have been opening stalls along the roadside without obtaining permission from any authority.
However, the East Dimapur Town Council has maintained that setting up stalls on public streets without proper authorisation is not legal.Speaking on the issue, the Chairperson of the East Dimapur Town Council said that while the council respects all religions and recognises the importance of festivals, there must be a clear understanding of where celebrations can be held without inconveniencing the public.
He noted that the practice had been continuing for years, when there was no town council in place, but emphasised that the situation must now be addressed under the existing civic administration.The chairperson stated that no community should be allowed to block a national highway in the name of celebrating a festival, regardless of religious affiliation.
He urged those organising the celebrations to explore alternative locations that would not disrupt traffic or obstruct public pathways.He further informed that the council would convene a meeting with the concerned community and take strict action to address the issue. He also stated that an order had been issued this year directing the concerned parties to clean the river after carrying out their religious practices.
Regarding street vending, the chairperson stressed that vendors must obtain the necessary permissions and follow the proper procedures before setting up stalls in public areas.The council’s statement comes amid concerns over the need to balance religious and cultural celebrations with public convenience, road safety and the regulation of street vending along the busy NH-29 corridor.
