Thirteen colony councils under Ward-20/Ward-4 under Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) have urged the DMC to revoke the notification dated May 22, 2023, for re-allocation of space for food truck/food cart street vendors at Naga Shopping Arcade (Super Market).
In a representation addressed to the DMC administrator, chairmen of 13 colonies- Bank Colony Council, Rengma Colony Council, Bangjak Phom Colony Council, Central Colony Council, Chakhesang Colony Council, Northern Angami Colony Council and Walford area Colony Council-
Termed the decision to reallocate space was “abruptly” made without any prior information, consent or proper consultation with the stakeholders and colony councils of Ward-20/Ward 4. The signatories informed that the collective joint meeting comprising of Ward-20 and other council surrounding the area have decided to strongly oppose the notification.
They revealed that there was an already “disturbing reality” that exists in the vicinity of Naga Shopping Arcade (Super Market). They said that the colony councils of Ward-20/Ward 4 have since inception, been tackling issues in the area, that attracted many challenges and problems requiring constant attention for maintaining law and order. The signatories said that colony councils always faced difficulties in tackling with the prevailing issues such as overnight illegal activities, late night parties, scuffles arising out of such illegal activates etc. They said such prevailing issues have largely affected the general public at large and particularly the public of Ward -20/Ward 4.
The signatories affirmed that the colonies vehemently object the notification in allowing the re-location of the Food Truck/Food Cart/Street Food Vendors in Naga Shopping Arcade (Super Market) when the area already created enough space for attracting immense problems,
The signatories expressed strong belief that the notification would only create space for more practical problems and adding more and more nuisance.
While supporting street food vendors community and in no way disrespecting or demeaning their dignity of labour, the joint council has, however, urged the DMC to revoke the notification in the interest and greater good of the public of Ward -20 and the surrounding colonies.
The signatories warned that in the event of failing to comply with their appeal, the joint colony councils would be forced to implement “any necessary steps/actions”.
