Over the last three days, the Ministry of Public Works has begun an operation to remove street vendors from the bustling Mandela Avenue and the South Ruimveldt area.
This action has sparked much dissatisfaction among the affected vendors who claim they were not given adequate notice.
In response, Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, maintains that his engineers have diligently provided notifications over the past several weeks, but no vendor heeded the notices issued.
The move comes as part of the ministry’s efforts to reorganise and enhance public spaces in the city, aiming to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety while maintaining the livelihoods of street vendors. However, the abruptness of the operation has left many feeling blindsided.
Several vendors, who have been a fixture in the area for years, expressed their frustration with the lack of prior notice. Some of them argued that they depend on their daily sales to support their families and have not been given sufficient time to make alternative arrangements.
Speaking to Stabroek News, Stacy, a long-time vendor in the area, said, “We have been selling here for years, and this sudden move without proper notice has left us in a difficult situation. We understand the need for development, but we need time to find new locations and ensure our businesses don’t suffer.”
Another vendor, who requested to remain anonymous and has been selling food in the South Ruimveldt area for over a decade, expressed deep frustration and concern about the sudden relocation and stated that the removal of her caravan was done without her even knowing.
“Is when I wake up next morning, I see all my caravan and everything gone. Dem people tell me that the Ministry carry it away. When I went down to them, they tell me I have to pay $60,000 to collect it back.”
In contrast, the minister defended his ministry’s actions, iterating that his engineers have diligently carried out the notification process. He further noted that new vendors are coming out and the Ministry simply cannot allow it as it’s illegal and dangerous.
“Our engineers have been in constant communication with the vendors over the last several weeks, informing them about the removal. We have been addressing this issue for a while now.”
Vendors said that they were told that this relocation is part of a broader development plan to create a safer and more organised environment for the general public. However, they are hoping that efforts can be made to reach a compromise with the Ministry. (Deneita Fredericks)
