Chennai Corporation’s Special Camps for Street Vendors. Starting today, November 22, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) will conduct special camps across all zonal offices to issue identity cards to street vendors, revolutionizing the way they operate in the city. This initiative, running until November 30, aims to regulate and protect the livelihoods of approximately 35,588 street vendors [1).
What to Expect at the Camps
To enroll in these camps, street vendors must bring:
- Aadhaar card
- Old identity cards (if applicable)
- Mobile phone
Upon registration, vendors will receive an OTP to update their details in the Corporation’s register. This streamlined process ensures that new identity cards are issued efficiently.
The Significance of Identity Cards
These identity cards are more than just a formality; they represent a secure and recognized presence for street vendors in Chennai. The GCC has previously issued biometric ID cards to over 23,000 street vendors, allowing them to operate within designated vending zones ¹. This move reinforces the city’s commitment to organizing and supporting its informal economy.
Streamlining Registration with Technology
In addition to the special camps, the GCC plans to launch a mobile app to simplify the registration process for street vendors. This digital initiative will verify contact numbers and issue chip-enabled ID cards to 33,558 registered vendors ². By embracing technology, Chennai aims to create a more efficient and inclusive environment for its street vendors.
A Step Towards Regulation and Empowerment
The city sales committee’s eighth meeting on November 6 sparked this initiative, highlighting the need for comprehensive regulation and protection of street vendors’ livelihoods. By issuing identity cards and implementing technological solutions, Chennai takes a significant step towards formalizing its informal sector.
This proactive approach will not only enhance the city’s administrative efficiency but also empower street vendors, integrating them into the formal economy and ensuring their rights are protected.
As Chennai continues to grow and evolve, initiatives like these special camps demonstrate the city’s dedication to supporting its most vulnerable populations, fostering a more inclusive and thriving community for all.
