Humane approach needed for Rehri-Farri operators in urban planning: Dr. Pardeep

JAMMU: Dr. Pardeep Mahotra, Media Incharge, J&K BJP, has emphasized the need for a balanced, humane, and well-planned approach while dealing with street vendors, rehri, farri, and kiosk operators across Jammu city and its adjoining areas. He stressed that while the issue of traffic congestion and urban mismanagement requires urgent attention, the livelihood concerns of thousands of families dependent on these commercial activities cannot be ignored.

Dr. Pardeep said that the unchecked operation of rehri, farri, and kiosk units along busy roads often leads to traffic chaos, prolonged jams, obstruction of pedestrian movement, and frequent confrontations between vendors, motorists, and local commuters. Such congestion also contributes to increased air and noise pollution, adversely affecting public health and the overall urban environment.

At the same time, Dr. Pardeep acknowledged the important role played by these vendors in the city's micro-economy. "These self-sustaining entrepreneurs receive little or no direct government assistance for their survival and provide affordable services and goods to the public while supporting the local economy. However, this cannot become a justification for allowing prolonged traffic disruptions and public inconvenience, particularly during peak hours," he said.

Dr. Pardeep asked the Municipal Corporation, Urban Development authorities, and all concerned government agencies to develop a comprehensive and practical solution to the issue. He maintained that before undertaking any eviction or anti-encroachment drive, authorities must identify and provide viable alternative locations where these vendors can continue their businesses with dignity and security.

Dr. Pardeep Mahotra, criticized CM Omar Abdullah, who heads the J&K politically and the onus lies upon him to set the things right. He said that the NC government led by Omar Abdullah keeps crying about the statehood, while ignoring the basic needs of the residents of J&K. He said that is the basic duty of the political dispensation to get the correct plans for these public activities.

Dr. Pardeep cautioned that unregulated roadside commercial activity, coupled with frequent traffic congestion, contributes to environmental degradation and directly aggravate various health concerns, including the increase in carcinogenic activity. He also warned about the potential economic, social, and law-and-order implications arising from the absence of a structured policy for street vending.

Raising serious concerns over urban planning, Dr. Pardeep questioned the failure of the competent authorities to formulate and effectively implement a visionary master plan for Jammu city and its expanding urban limits. He remarked that there remains considerable uncertainty regarding the provisions and implementation status of the proposed Master Plan-2032.

"Is it not a failure of the concerned departments that adequate commercial zones, designated rehri/farri and kiosk areas, parking facilities, and other essential urban infrastructure have not been planned and developed in accordance with the city's growing needs?" he questioned.

“Proper zoning, designated vending areas, sufficient parking infrastructure, and scientific urban planning should be prioritized to ensure orderly growth and improved quality of life for citizens before claiming to be flag-bearers of a smart-city”, Dr. Pardeep said.