Vendors on Chennai's Marina Beach gathered on January 23 to oppose the Greater Chennai Corporation's plan to cut vending units from 1,417 to 300 as part of a beautification drive for Blue Flag Certification. They marched to the local MLA's office, demanding protection for their livelihoods. The initiative follows a Madras High Court order aimed at balancing environmental protection with vendor rights.
On January 23, around 9:30 a.m., a large group of vendors, mostly women, assembled near the Vinayakar Temple on Marina Beach after their shops were shut. The gathering turned into a march towards the office of Udhayanidhi Stalin, the Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni MLA and Deputy Chief Minister, to submit petitions against the Chennai Corporation's proposal. This plan seeks to reduce shops from 1,417 to 300 to support beautification and secure Blue Flag Certification, as ordered by the Madras High Court.
Vendors emphasized their role in beach safety and livelihoods. M. Sakthi Vel, a vendor, stated, “We demand one shop for each family by verifying ration and Aadhaar cards. We cannot accept the 300-shop restriction. This is a struggle to protect the livelihood of over 4,000 local families who depend on the beach.” He highlighted how vendors ensure safety, prevent crimes, and assist in rescues. R. Anbu Mani, secretary of the Anna Dr. Kalaignar Sirukadai Vyaparigal Sangam, added, “We have decided to petition the government to protect our livelihood. The vendors have been here for generations.”
The beach has a history of littering and encroachments, as noted in a 1980 Hindu report on rubbish from vendors. The current Blue Flag Phase 2 initiative covers over 50 acres with a no-vending zone, part of developing 121 acres. Corporation Commissioner J. Kumaragurubaran confirmed the removal of 28 shops in the certification area. Delays stem from sand and groundwater pollution.
Regular visitor V. Suresh praised recent cleanliness improvements post-Pongal, including bins and fines for dumping, but cautioned that reducing shops without alternatives could lead to objections. Eight vendor associations plan to approach the Supreme Court for more time beyond the March-end deadline and alternative spaces.
Advocate Sudha Ramalingam called for transparent policies to prevent encroachments, while Arul Doss of NAPM stressed fair allocation for all vendors. Deputy Mayor M. Magesh Kumaar noted oversight by retired Justice N. Paul Vasanthakumar, ensuring no political interference in shop allotments.
