Pune Municipal Corporation Designates Eight Locations for Hawker and Farmers’ Markets
By: Pune Pulse
September 11, 2023
Pune: In an effort to address the burgeoning issue of street vendors and traffic congestion in Pune, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has taken a proactive step by designating eight specific locations for the establishment of hawker markets in the city’s first phase.
These designated spaces will not only serve as hubs for hawkers during the weekdays but will also host a weekly farmers’ market every Saturday and Sunday. The initiative aims to streamline street vending activities and enhance the overall urban experience for residents.
The decision to create these dedicated spaces was inspired by a suggestion from Health Minister Tanaji Sawant, who recognized the gravity of traffic congestion and the growing presence of street traders in Pune.
As a result, meticulous planning for the hawker markets is currently underway, with Minister Sawant recently overseeing progress in this regard.
In addition to offering a solution to the congestion problem, Sawant proposed that the Municipal Corporation provide essential amenities at these markets while eliminating the tendering process for daily maintenance.
Furthermore, during the discussions Sawant also addressed the issue of encroachments on metro parking spaces near Shankar Maharaj Matha, emphasizing the need to rectify this matter promptly.
The first phase of this initiative includes the allocation of eight market spaces, with construction completed for six of them. Additional locations are being considered to further expand the project.
Deputy Commissioner Madhav Jagtap stated that these markets will soon be operational in areas like Baner, Bavdhan, and Kondhwa.
In addition to the hawker market development, Minister Sawant also issued directives to address encroachments near Shankar Maharaj Matha on Satara Road, stressing the importance of enhancing the experience for devotees by resolving this issue promptly.
Additionally, the meeting addressed the need for improved parking arrangements at metro stations, as the metro system requires adequate parking spaces to cater to commuter needs. Discussions were held to explore possible solutions in this regard.
