What are the challenges faced by street vendors in India post-COVID
Street vendors feel vulnerable after COVID, despite govt. loans
The challenges faced by street vendors in India post-COVID are as follows:
- Lack of customers: With lockdowns and restrictions in place, the footfall of customers has significantly reduced, affecting the income of street vendors.
- Health and safety concerns: Street vendors face health risks as they work in crowded areas with minimal access to sanitation facilities. Fears of contracting and spreading the virus have further impacted their businesses.
- Financial losses: During the lockdown, most street vendors were unable to operate, leading to financial losses. The recovery process has been slow, making it difficult for them to regain their financial stability.
- Limited access to resources: Many street vendors lack access to formal banking services, making it challenging for them to avail government loans and financial support programs.
- Lack of recognition: Street vendors often face limited recognition and support from the government, which leads to a sense of vulnerability and uncertainty in their livelihoods.
- Harassment and eviction: Street vendors have also faced challenges such as harassment by local authorities and the threat of eviction from their designated vending zones, further exacerbating their sense of insecurity.
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a year ago