Ludhiana: In its fourth attempt to organise roadside eateries, the Ludhiana municipal corporation is planning a dedicated street food zone equipped with modern amenities at two newly proposed locations in the city.Part of a state-wide initiative funded by the central govt, the civic body has shortlisted sites outside Nehru Rose Garden and near Dholewal Chowk to set up uniform vending spaces without disrupting urban traffic.Assistant commissioner Jasdev Singh Sekhon confirmed the project, saying that the proposed zones would feature proper seating arrangements, public washrooms, and dedicated parking spaces. To ensure strict hygiene, only vendors already registered with the civic body, who hold a valid Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) licence will be permitted to operate. The hubs will give special preference to traditional Punjabi food items.Officials chose the two new locations because they offer ample space for uniform vendor facades and enjoy massive public footfall, eliminating concerns about business viability. Since the project is centrally funded, the civic body faces no financial constraints. To boost the project profile, the corporation has already requested the tourism department to feature and advertise the upcoming food zones on its official website.Establishing designated vending zones has remained a challenge for the civic body for over a decade, leaving residents frustrated with growing traffic snarls caused by haphazard roadside encroachments. The corporation’s previous three attempts failed entirely.The most recent blueprint — planned under the Southern Bypass flyover in BRS Nagar — was abruptly shelved after tenders were floated because the irrigation department refused to grant a mandatory no objection certificate (NOC).Officials are currently finalising the new sites and intend to begin construction immediately upon receiving the necessary administrative approvals.
