Panchkula: The Panchkula welfare association (Sector 8) has urged the district administration to regulate street vendors and order an impartial inquiry into municipal corporation-run vending zones, citing security concerns and alleged irregularities.In a memorandum to the deputy commissioner, the association said many vendors, including those operating handcarts, tractor-trolleys and “jugaad” vehicles, were functioning without adequate verification, making identification difficult.Association president RP Malhotra alleged that several allotted vending sites had changed hands over the years and the identity of many current occupants was unclear. He also claimed that tin sheds had come up at several vending sites, leading to congestion despite planned spacing between kiosks.The association said such congestion could hinder emergency response during fires and create spaces for anti-social elements. It sought a probe into alleged encroachments, violations, environmental damage and public inconvenience, particularly at the vending zone near the Sector 8 post office.General secretary Suresh Goyal said the administration should maintain a database of vendors, issue identity cards and metal token plates, and conduct periodic verification. He added that a similar system was earlier followed in Chandigarh and could help curb unauthorised entry into residential sectors.
