Easing traffic menace: Ranchi Municipal Corporation takes step to free Lalpur market area of hawkers

RANCHI: The Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC) is relocating the hawkers operating from Kokar and Lalpur market areas to Lalpur Vegetable Market in a bid to curb traffic congestion. But only 74 out of the 600 street vendors were allotted space in the first phase on Saturday, officials said.
The Lalpur Vegetable Market, constructed at a cost of Rs 5. 17 crore, was inaugurated on November 15, 2022.
The civic body on Saturday held a lottery to allot space to 74 sellers of non-vegetarian items at the Lalpur Vegetable Market.
Speaking to TOI, an official of the RMC said, “Efforts are being made to ensure smooth flow of traffic by identifying vending zones in various areas. A 10-member town vending committee has been formed to serve as a liaison between the RMC and the vendors. It has identified around eight vending zones, and each zone will receive a designated market.”
“Traffic caused by street vendors is a serious concern. Hence, this initiative has been taken for the convenience of commuters,” he added.
The RMC is drafting a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to identify the plots for the construction of the designated market areas.
Speaking to TOI, mayor Asha Lakra said, “Lottery was done to allot space to the vendors dealing in meat and fish in the newly constructed market located on Lalpur-Kokar road. The effort has been taken to reduce traffic congestion.”
Deputy mayor Sanjeev Vijaywargiya said, “Since 2008, consistent attempts have been made to organise the fruit, vegetable, and meat-fish vendors of Lalpur Kokar roads. However, only 74 out of the 600 street vendors have been allotted space in the first phase on Saturday.”
Ankit Choubey, a student residing in Booty More, stated, “I have to cross Lalpur and Kokar street markets while commuting from Booty More to Marwari College. It takes me around 45 minutes to reach college due to traffic snarls on the stretch.”
Neha Sharma, a resident of Lalpur, rued, “My office is located at Lalpur area. It takes me around 20 minutes to travel a distance that, on a regular route, would take mere five minutes.”
Sharon Ekka, a resident of Kokar remarked, “I have to leave home half an hour early in order to arrive at the Kutchery office on time. Many people purchase vegetables, fruits, non-vegetable items from the hawkers, which contribute to traffic congestion on roads.”