The Mohali Municipal Corporation (MC) has successfully generated significant revenue by auctioning designated sites for selling coconut water, while simultaneously cracking down on unauthorised street vending of the popular drink. The civic body's transparent auction process, held on Wednesday, fetched approximately Rs 1.55 crore for the one-year licensing period.
Auction Yields High Revenue from Prime Locations
The auction saw enthusiastic participation, with 45 bidders taking part after depositing a two-month advance amount. Out of the 35 sites put up for bidding, 27 sites were successfully allotted, translating to a strong response from local entrepreneurs. The bidding was conducted at the MC office under the direct supervision of Municipal Commissioner Parminder Pal Singh, with a representative from the Mohali Deputy Commissioner's office also present to ensure transparency.
The star of the auction was a site located near the main gurdwara in Phase 11, which commanded the highest annual bid of Rs 12 lakh. On the other end of the spectrum, the lowest successful bid secured a site for Rs 3.50 lakh per annum. This wide range highlights the varying commercial value of locations across the city.
Strict New Rules to Regulate Vending and Traffic
In a significant policy shift aimed at decongesting footpaths and roads, the Municipal Corporation announced that no sites were allotted on footpaths or roadsides this time, citing major traffic concerns. Authorised vendors will now be permitted to operate only from specifically designated parking areas or other approved locations that do not obstruct pedestrian or vehicular movement.
Furthermore, the MC has issued a stern warning to all other commercial entities in the city. No fruit sellers, juice vendors, or general shopkeepers outside of the successful bidders will be allowed to sell coconut water. This move is intended to create a regulated market and ensure that only those who have paid for the official licenses engage in this trade.
Penalties for Violations and Future Implications
Officials have made it clear that the new order will be strictly enforced. "Any violation of this order will invite penalties and seizure of goods," warned MC authorities. This crackdown is expected to streamline vending operations, improve civic cleanliness, and guarantee the promised revenue to the corporation's coffers.
The successful auction, which saw 24 of the 27 auctioned sites finally allotted to bidders, demonstrates a structured approach to managing street vending. By moving vendors to approved spots and eliminating unauthorised sales, the Mohali MC aims to strike a balance between public convenience, trader livelihood, and urban management, setting a potential precedent for other cities in the region.
