On the side

Street vendors are seen as offering affordable goods, catering to the economically disadvantaged segments of society. Moreover, countries such as Thailand and Singapore, both economically strong countries, have lively street cultures, showing that with adept management, street businesses reap fruitful results.

Street vendors in Kathmandu are also in favor of the concept of arranging an alternative space and time to conduct their businesses. They are willing to accept the mayor's efforts to change the city's landscape as long as they are not unfairly mistreated by the police and do not have to constantly hide to operate.

Nabin Manandhar, spokesman for the Kathmandu Metropolitan City, said that the trade unions of street vendors have been asked to set up a location for them to conduct their businesses.

However, Maya Gurung, president of the central committee of the Nepal Street Vendors Trade Union, said they have not heard of any updates on their concerns from the municipal authorities.

She added that cleaning up street businesses seems to be the only concern of the officials, with little action planned to ensure the livelihood of the street vendors.

On May 16, the Supreme Court also issued an order for the Kathmandu Metropolitan City to submit an action plan for the management and alternative measures for street vendors.

Gurung said this order has been ignored by the metropolitan city authorities.

"It's hard not to see the good ... done for the city. But the poor too are a part of this city. If only we could be provided an alternative, we would be happy," she said.

THE KATHMANDU POST