Mumbai: BMC launches QR code ID cards for hawkers, implementation questions emerge

The BMC initiative aims to formalise street vending through legal recognition. FILE PIC

The BMC on Thursday launched the distribution of QR code-based identity cards to registered hawkers - a move aimed at formalising street vending through legal recognition and protecting the livelihoods of authorised hawkers. The programme was inaugurated with the symbolic distribution of the new IDs by Mayor Ritu Tawde. However, within hours of receiving the new identity card, some hawkers faced action, raising questions over the implementation of the system.

‘Forced to shut shop'

Mohan Hansraj Yadav with his QR code-based ID card. PICS/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

A similar allegation also emerged from Bandra, where registered hawker Sadharan Mishra claimed he received the QR code-based identity card in the morning but was later prevented by police personnel from continuing business operations at his vending spot. Mishra alleged that he was forced to shut operations for the day.

Resentment among hawker

The fine receipt issued to Yadav by the police for illegal vending

The incidents have reportedly triggered resentment among hawker groups, which argue that QR code-based identity cards issued by the municipal corporation should be recognised immediately by all agencies concerned, particularly the police. The organisations have demanded that unnecessary action against registered hawkers be stopped, and that clear operational guidelines regarding the QR code system be issued.

Fined hours later

Among those who received the new identity card was Mohan Hansraj Yadav, 41, a registered hawker from Andheri East's Nagardas Road who runs a small-scale tomato business. Yadav allegedly faced action within hours of receiving the new IDs. According to Yadav, he returned to his vending location and resumed work after collecting the identity card from the BMC headquarters in the morning. However, he alleged that in the evening, police personnel inspected his QR code and ID card, refused to recognise it, and imposed a fine. "The BMC recognises us, but the lack of coordination between departments and law enforcement creates problems for small vendors," he said.

Union Speak

Jayshankar Singh, general secretary of Azad Hawkers Union and Town Vending Committee member
‘While the municipal corporation is introducing a system to provide legal identity to registered vendors, continued action against them at the ground level undermines the purpose of the initiative. Registered hawkers should be allowed to conduct business with dignity and without repeated harassment or uncertainty'