In order to keep the citizens well informed about the hawkers near their homes and the items that they are permitted to sell, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is suggesting using GIC or Geographic Information System to keep better track of them and eventually put the information up online so that the citizens can learn if the hawkers are licensed and if they have permission to sell the items on their shelves.
An official added that the BMC are using precise latitude and longitude information to attain information on their exact location so that it can be accurately located on the map. A civic official said - “Soon, we will issue vending certificates to licensed hawkers. A lottery will be held to allot the pitches. After this process is completed, the final information will be put online, allowing residents of an area to ascertain the number of hawkers allowed in their lane and the commodity they are allowed to sell.”
Also read: MNS Will Agitate Against BMC Over Hawkers Zone
RTI activist Anil Galgali welcomed the move, saying, “GIS mapping will be a win-win situation for citizens to raise their voice against encroachments as well as the authorities, who can act.”
Taking somewhat of an opposing view, BJP corporator from Colaba, Makrand Narwekar said, “There is no clarity even on why the pitches are being marked now if a survey needs to be conducted again.” He also stressed on the need for the BMC to adhere to the Street Vendors Act and undertake a survey every five years.
Congress’ Ravi Raja who is the opposition party leader in the BMC has mentioned that a general body meeting will be held on February 25 to discuss the matter. “We are regularly getting complaints about the marking of hawking pitches. Unfortunately, we cannot pacify people as corporators weren’t included in the pitchmarking process by the administration,” he added.
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