Roadside vendors seek relocation to New Ramanathapuram Bus Stand

During the weekly grievance redress meeting on Monday, roadside vendors from the New Bus Stand area submitted a petition seeking permission to relocate their stalls near the recently inaugurated bus stand.

The petitioners, who previously operated around the old site, expressed that the shifting of the bus stand has severely crippled their livelihoods. They emphasised that their families were entirely dependent on the modest income generated from the small businesses.

The vendors, whose stalls range from flower shops to snack stalls, argued that their services were essential for commuters. However, since the opening of the new facility a few months ago, the municipal administration has denied them permission to set up in the vicinity.

Vendors stated that their business relied on high foot traffic. “Moving us to an alternative location with few visitors would make it impossible to survive,” they noted.

Arumuga Kani, a vendor, pointed out that they possessed Union Government-issued identity cards and have records of rent paid to the municipality, yet they were still being blocked from operating.

Despite meeting with several officials and the local MLA, their grievances remain unaddressed.

Ms. Arumuga Kani questioned the municipality’s stance, noting that they were not seeking to open new businesses but were trying to continue shops they have successfully run for over 15 years

Furthermore, she condemned the conduct of certain officials, alleging that vendors were often treated in a derogatory manner whenever they approach the administration to seek permission.