They alleged that additional rent is being demanded to run their daily shops. Subsequently, it has been planned to auction the shops to the highest bidder.
Coimbatore: The roadside vendors residing at the Marudhamalai foothills petitioned the District collector to give up the planned auctioning of the shop and to ensure that the shops are provided to the old vendors only.
More than 40 vendors have been running this small-scale business by setting up roadside shops at the foothills of Marudamalai for more than 30 years.
They alleged that additional rent is being demanded to run their daily shops. Subsequently, it has been planned to auction the shops to the highest bidder.
About more than 50 families rely on this small business for their livelihood including people from the nomadic Narikuravar community.
The affected vendors said "We have been running the shops for over 30 years. All of our survival is dependent on the vending businesses we do. Due to the introduction of an auction system, we have been forced to evacuate. We are in a position where our families would struggle for a day's meal We appeal that the government consider our livelihood and take the necessary action."
It was reported that only two days are left for the auction procedures to be carried out.
The affected vendors also threatened to stage a protest at the Marudhamalai foothills, if their demands are not met.