Street vendors in Bengaluru are grappling with reduced business hours and declining sales as they navigate the scorching heat sweeping the city. S Babu, President of the Street Vendors Union, highlighted that many vendors have curtailed their working hours to shield themselves from the sun’s relentless rays, with some opting to commence operations only after 2 pm.
The adverse weather conditions have significantly impacted vendors who rely on push carts to sell their goods, forcing them to contend with multiple challenges. One vendor lamented the difficulty of staying hydrated while traversing the city streets, emphasizing the risk of perishable goods losing their appeal under the harsh sunlight.
In response to dwindling sales and mounting pressures, some push cart vendors have started exploring alternative livelihoods, citing the increased prices of vegetables and the reduced shelf life of perishable goods during summer. However, the prospect of erecting makeshift shelters to shield themselves from the sun poses another dilemma, as vendors fear drawing unwanted attention from authorities.
Expressing concerns over regular evictions by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), vendors stressed the need for essential amenities such as drinking water and accessible washrooms rather than makeshift shelters. They urged authorities to prioritize the welfare of street vendors by providing adequate facilities and designating proper vending zones to support their livelihoods.
