The Greater Noida Authority has intensified its enforcement efforts to remove illegal street vendors and unauthorized constructions across key areas of the city. This initiative aims to decongest public spaces, improve urban mobility, and ensure compliance with city planning norms.
The enforcement drive, which began earlier this month, is being carried out in major commercial and residential zones, including Surajpur, Alpha Commercial Belt, and Pari Chowk. These locations have been hotspots for unregulated vending and unapproved construction, often leading to traffic bottlenecks and pedestrian safety hazards.
According to officials, the operation involves the removal of unlicensed vendors, demolition of unauthorized structures, and the restoration of public walkways and roads. Over 150 street vendors operating without permits have been evicted so far. In addition, property owners involved in unapproved construction activities have received notices and warnings of legal action under the applicable provisions of the Uttar Pradesh Urban Planning and Development Act.
“We are taking strict steps to reclaim public areas and uphold the integrity of urban planning in Greater Noida,” said NG Ravi Kumar, CEO of the Greater Noida Authority. “Such encroachments not only breach planning rules but also disrupt public life.”
Residents in several sectors have expressed support for the initiative. “The encroachments had made it very difficult to walk freely on the pavements. This action by the authority was necessary,” said Meera Joshi, a resident of Beta-2 sector.
However, the move has also drawn criticism from sections of the vendor community. Some have alleged that they are being displaced without any alternative arrangements for livelihood. In response, Authority officials have assured that steps are being taken to provide rehabilitation under the National Urban Livelihoods Mission (NULM). Plans are being considered for establishing designated vending zones, where licensed vendors can operate legally.
Urban development experts have welcomed the crackdown as a necessary step towards orderly urban growth. They emphasize the need to pair enforcement with inclusive measures that consider the economic impact on low-income groups dependent on street vending.
