LUCKNOW: On Sunday, residents of LDA Colony in Aashiana staged a protest against the Lucknow Municipal Corporation’s plans for a vending zone along the footpath adjacent to Gautam Buddha Park’s boundary wall. They argue that the ongoing construction violates planning regulations and is turning into a permanent structure.
A significant crowd gathered near the park, calling for an immediate halt to the work. Protesters indicated that the civic authorities had previously suspended the project due to local objections, but construction resumed shortly thereafter.
“What the LMC claims to be a temporary structure is clearly not. They are building brick walls, RCC pillars, and beams. If this continues, we will effectively lose the footpath and part of the road,” said Mahendra Verma, a spokesperson for the protesters.
Residents allege that the LMC is creating a model vending zone with over 60 shops, estimated to cost around Rs 1.5 crore. They claim that considerable construction, including brickwork and reinforced concrete pillars and beams, is already taking place, contradicting official claims of the project being temporary.
Furthermore, locals assert that the project lacks the necessary departmental approvals. The area is already congested due to heavy traffic, and they fear that the proposed vending zone will narrow the carriageway, worsening the situation. They highlighted the proximity of three hospitals and nearby educational institutions, warning that increased roadside congestion would hinder access for ambulances, students, and local families.
“With hospitals and schools nearby, establishing a permanent vending zone here will create traffic bottlenecks and inconvenience everyone. If the construction isn’t halted, we will have no choice but to seek legal action,” stated Shalini Awasthi, another protester.
Sources mention that the Lucknow Development Authority had advised the municipal corporation about 12 days prior to cease construction in response to complaints from residents. However, locals allege that work has continued despite this communication.
The LMC officials remarked that the vending zone aims to mitigate illegal vending in the area, and if local residents continue to oppose the plan, they will explore alternative solutions.
