Pune traffic cops initiate crackdown on food trucks encroaching on public spaces

PUNE: The Pune traffic police have initiated action against unregulated food trucks encroaching on public spaces and hindering traffic movement. Food trucks found parked on footpaths and roads in the jurisdiction of Vimannagar, Kalyaninagar, Kothrud and Samarth police stations faced action on Sunday.

Deputy commissioner of police (traffic) Pankaj Deshmukh said two food trucks were also confiscated during the drive. “The two food trucks in Kothrud and Vimannagar were engaging in business without the necessary modification certificate from the Regional Transport Office (RTO). They were confiscated and sent to the RTO. Food trucks are equivalent to handcarts selling food and action will continue to be taken if they are found encroaching on public space or without the necessary certification,” he stated.
Pune has nearly 50 food trucks mainly in Kalyaninagar, Vimannagar, Baner-Balewadi, Aundh and Wanowrie. While many vehicles are stationed permanently in food truck parks, a majority can be seen on the roads, inviting action from the police and the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC).
President of the Pune Food Truck Association Vikram Dabholkar said that although a modification certificate and change of utility certificate from the RTO is necessary, most officials from the department are clueless about these. “The process to get the certificate takes between three to six months. The chassis number, purpose of utility, colour and other aspects change on modification. This must also be certified and registered. The RTO also has certain set designs for modification but one is not allowed to use gas burners as per these designs, it is supposed to be fully electric. This increases the cost,” Dabholkar explained.
Regional Transport Officer Sanjay Raut said that permissions are required to modify vehicles. “This is a rare transfer and certification that people seek and the numbers are small. A modification certificate is necessary to install cooking equipment,” he said.
Dabholkar added that authorities would take action against food trucks parked on the roads. “Encroachment was an issue. I have established food truck parks at Vimannagar and Hinjewadi. Engaging in business at these parks has been hassle-free,” he said.
Sanjay Nargude from FDA Pune explained that prior inspections are conducted only for units with large scale manufacturing to provide licenses. “However, surprise visits to inspect quality of food and hygiene is conducted even for food trucks,” he said.
Dabholkar added that a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the fire department is also crucial. “In order to minimize fire hazard, stationary food trucks have been advised to disconnect the cables to ignition and battery. Further, the diesel tank must be kept empty,” he stated.