In a significant enforcement drive, the Trichy Corporation on Sunday removed 125 street vendors from the bustling NSB Road. The action was taken as the vendors were found to be obstructing the path of devotees heading to the historic Rockfort Thayumanaswami temple complex.
Alternative Spaces Allocated for Relocated Vendors
The civic body did not leave the evicted vendors in the lurch. Officials had arranged for alternative vending spaces across four different locations within the city. The 125 vendors were initially given time to relocate voluntarily before January 20. The designated new spots include:
- An area near St. Joseph's School close to the Chathiram bus stand.
- The front section of the Poompuhar handicraft showroom located in Singarathope.
- A space near the WB Road Tamil Sangam building.
- A zone near the rear side of the Central Library.
In total, a dedicated vending stretch of 181 meters was finalized across these sites to accommodate the displaced sellers.
Why the Enforcement Was Advanced Before Pongal
The situation took a turn when some vendors requested a grace period to benefit from the ongoing Pongal festival sales. However, the corporation decided to advance the enforcement action. This decision came after authorities learned that some vendors had approached the court seeking a stay order against the relocation plan.
To pre-empt any legal obstacle, the corporation, with support from the Trichy city police, carried out the clearance drive ahead of schedule. The operation covered an extensive 800-meter stretch between the Main Guard Gate and the entrance of the Rockfort temple. While most vendors cooperated with the officials, a small group protested the move and was subsequently removed.
Official Statement and Legal Backing
A senior corporation official clarified the basis for the action. "Most vendors were cooperative; only a few protested. The enforcement was carried out based on a resolution passed by the city street vending committee," the official stated. This indicates that the move followed due procedure and was not an arbitrary decision.
The primary goal remains ensuring smooth and safe access for the thousands of devotees visiting the prominent Rockfort temple, especially during the festive season, while also attempting to balance the livelihoods of the street vending community through structured rehabilitation.
