PMC Plans Palika Bazaar-Style Roadside Markets to Relocate Illegal Hawkers in Pune
Pune, 25th March 2026: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is considering creating dedicated roadside vending zones across the city, inspired by Delhi’s Palika Bazaar model, in an attempt to address the growing problem of illegal hawkers occupying footpaths and road margins.
According to PMC Standing Committee Chairman Shrinath Bhimale, the civic body has identified around eight locations where organised vending markets could be developed. These markets are expected to include basic infrastructure such as parking facilities and designated spaces for vendors. One of the proposed locations is in the Market Yard area, which Bhimale represents in the civic body.
He said the idea is to relocate hawkers who currently operate on pavements and along roadsides to these planned vending zones. The initiative is intended to free up footpaths for pedestrians while providing vendors with an organised place to conduct their business. Similar markets are expected to be introduced in other parts of the city in phases.
However, residents remain sceptical about whether the proposal will effectively resolve the long-standing issue of encroachment by illegal vendors.
Frequent commuters pointed out that pavements along FC Road and in the Deccan Gymkhana area are regularly occupied by hawkers, making it difficult for pedestrians to use the footpaths. They said earlier attempts by the civic body to shift vendors to designated spaces had not produced the expected results and called for consistent enforcement.
Responding to the concerns, Bhimale said the civic administration would continue taking action against unauthorised hawkers. He added that the PMC would direct officials to intensify enforcement drives against vendors illegally occupying public spaces.
