Vendors Raise Concerns as Pune Police Order Food Stalls, Hawkers to Shut by 10pm
Pune, 10th June 2026: In a move aimed at strengthening law and order in the city, the Pune Police Commissionerate has directed all temporary food establishments, including food streets, hawkers, paan stalls, egg bhurji vendors, Chinese food carts and other mobile eateries, to shut operations by 10 pm.
The order, issued by the Pune Police Commissioner, seeks to curb late-night gatherings and prevent unlawful activities in public spaces. While permanent establishments such as restaurants and other licensed businesses are not covered by the restriction, all temporary and roadside food vendors have been instructed to close by 10 pm.
Police officials have also directed personnel to ensure enforcement of the order without entering establishments unnecessarily or using offensive language while interacting with vendors.
The decision is expected to significantly impact Pune’s late-night food culture, particularly among students, IT employees and other working professionals who frequently depend on roadside food stalls after 10 pm. Many residents opt for inexpensive food carts and street vendors instead of restaurants and cafes, especially after late work shifts.
The move has also raised concerns among small business owners, who fear a loss of income. Vendors said many operate from temporary stalls because renting commercial premises is unaffordable amid rising costs.
“Many customers visit us after 10 pm, especially students and employees returning from night shifts. If we are forced to close early, it will become difficult for small businesses like ours to survive,” said the owner of a Chinese food stall.
The police decision has sparked discussions among traders and vendors over possible solutions, with many hoping for a review of the restrictions or alternative arrangements that balance public safety with livelihoods.
