The Assam government will launch a comprehensive two-month survey of roadside vendors in Guwahati starting August 16, 2024, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Saturday. The initiative aims to analyze the trade and places of domicile of an estimated one lakh street traders in the city.
Survey to reveal operators and employment gaps
Speaking about the drive, Sarma said, "One by one we will take census-type data of every street vendor. Then we will be able to know how much employment opportunities we, Assamese people, have been missing." He noted that the survey will continue for two months from August 16.
The chief minister stated that the data collection will also reveal the number of vendors who have come from various districts of Assam such as Dhubri, Goalpara, Nalbari, Karimganj, Barpeta, or from other states like Bihar and West Bengal.
Encroachment and hygiene concerns
Sarma pointed out that Guwahati has around one lakh roadside shops, including both larger and smaller ones. These establishments often operate by encroaching on roadsides or areas below flyovers, including meat shops and vegetable stalls. While roadside business thrives in Guwahati, hygiene remains a major concern, especially for food vendors.
The chief minister emphasized that a significant portion of trade, including fruit selling, has been taken over by people not from Assam's indigenous communities. He said, "This survey will be an eye opener for the Assamese youths."
The survey aims to identify the entities controlling operations and provide better employment opportunities for local residents.
