Karnal vendors disappointed over shifting of Sunday market

The popular Sunday market, which had been operating in Sector 12 for several years, has been shifted to Sector 4 from Sunday, which brewed resentment among many street vendors who rely on the weekly market for their livelihood.

The vendors, who set up roadside stalls and carts, claimed that business at the new location has been dismal. “There is no footfall here. Hardly any customers come here for shopping. In Sector 12, people knew about the market and used to come regularly as it is in the heart of the city,” said one of the vendors.

Several vendors recounted their repeated displacement. “We were earlier on Novelty Road, later moved to another spot, then to Sector 12, and now here in Sector 4. We are just being pushed from one place to another. This affects our livelihood and our ability to feed our families,” said another vendor.

The vendors said the new location is far from the main city areas and not easily accessible for many shoppers. “We are not asking for much—just a fixed place where we can run our small businesses without being constantly relocated,” they added.

Some vendors also raised concerns about overcrowding of vendors and lack of space at the new location. “Many outsiders are also coming and setting up their shops. We do not get proper space to set up ours. It is chaotic and mismanaged. The administration must look into this,” said a vendor.

Police and local officials reached the site to pacify the agitated vendors. While a few vendors left the area with their carts, others continued to press their demands. “We do not earn anything here. People do not even come here for shopping. In Sector 12, even casual passersby would make purchases,” said another vendor.

An official of the HSVP clarified that the decision to shift the market was made officially. “Arrangements have been made in Sector 4, including tents and stalls. If the vendors have concerns, they are welcome to approach us, but setting up shop again in Sector 12 is not permitted,” said an official. The vendors appealed to the government and the district authorities to provide a permanent designated place where they could earn a living with dignity and stability.

Meanwhile, the vendors of Karna Gate market followed the directions of Mayor Renu Bala Gupta and Karnal Municipal Corporation (KMC) Commissioner Dr Vaishali Sharma, who directed them to follow yellow line guidelines.

The bustling Karna Gate Market has seen a welcome change, with street vendors and cart owners now setting up their stalls within the marked yellow lines. The adherence to the guidelines has not only enhanced public convenience in the market. The Sunday market in Karna Gate was in headlines due to removal by the MC authorities. The issue was raised by the Opposition also.

Haryana Tribune