Gujarat High Court denies interim relief to food vendors near H L, CEPT

Food vendors operating near H L College and CEPT University in Ahmedabad had filed a petition in Gujarat High Court challenging the removal of their stalls. However, Justice Niral R Mehta denied any interim relief to the vendors at this stage.

During the hearing, the Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) argued that the food stalls are located on a 60-foot wide road near the Commerce Six Roads junction, a major traffic point.

AMC stated that the presence of these stalls causes frequent roadblocks and traffic jams, inconveniencing commuters. It was also submitted that these vendors illegally encroach on footpaths, and the customers who visit these stalls park their vehicles on the roadside, further worsening the traffic situation.

AMC referred to the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014, which clearly prohibits cooking on public streets. Based on this, AMC argued that the vendors are in violation of the law and hence, should not be granted any relief.

The municipal authority emphasised its ongoing efforts to remove encroachments across Ahmedabad in an attempt to improve traffic conditions and urban infrastructure. AMC appealed to the court not to allow these vendors to continue operating in the disputed area.

Taking the submissions into account, the High Court has scheduled the next hearing for later this month and has directed the food vendors to refrain from placing their stalls until a final verdict is delivered.