Drone Surveys and Systematic Planning Ordered to Streamline Vending Activities and Ensure Lawful Operations
The Madras High Court has issued a landmark judgment aiming at the regulation and streamlining of street vending activities on Marina Beach, Chennai. The judgment, passed by Justices Mr. R. Suresh Kumar and A.D. Jagadish Chandira, directs a series of comprehensive measures to ensure the orderly conduct of vending activities while maintaining public utility and environmental standards.
In response to a petition filed by S. Devi, the court addressed concerns regarding the chaotic street vending practices that have long plagued Marina Beach. The judgment mandates the Greater Chennai Corporation, along with various state departments, to undertake drone surveys for shop enumeration and prepare detailed layout sketches for vending shops across the sprawling 270-acre beach area. The surveys are set to identify existing shops and enable the formulation of a structured plan for vending operations from Napier Bridge to Srinivasapuram.
The court emphasized the necessity of forming committees to conduct a census of existing shops, collecting detailed information through advanced technological means such as mobile apps integrated with the ICCC Department. This initiative aims to gather comprehensive data, including shop owners’ Aadhaar and license details, thereby ensuring transparent and lawful vending activities.
Recognizing the importance of maintaining hygiene and safety standards, the judgment orders periodic inspections by food safety officials to monitor the quality of food items sold at the beach. Additionally, traffic police are instructed to regularize parking and manage congestion, particularly near the busy Napier Bridge area.
In an inspection scheduled for December 22, 2025, the court will verify the proposed arrangements for vending shops, service roads, public access areas, and the Blue-Flag Area Scheme. Stakeholders, including government officials, have been directed to assist during this inspection to ensure compliance with the court’s directives.
The judgment also highlights the development of another Blue-Flag area at Marina Beach, with plans to convert 20 acres near Kannagi Statue, reinforcing the beach’s commitment to environmental standards.
This decision marks a pivotal step towards achieving a balance between supporting local vendors and maintaining the ecological and public utility standards of Chennai’s iconic Marina Beach.
Bottom Line:
Regulation and Streamlining of Street Vending Activities on Marina Beach, Chennai - Court directs comprehensive measures, including drone surveys, shop enumeration, traffic regularization, and hygiene monitoring to ensure orderly and lawful vending activities.
Statutory provision(s): Regulation of Street Vending, Judicial Inspection, Compliance with Court Directions
S.Devi v. Principal Secretary to Government Environment, (Madras)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2824919
