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The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has launched this initiative as a pilot project to address the growing concerns of traffic congestion caused by unauthorised food stalls while also ensuring better cleanliness and convenience for customers. The Gupchup Market Concept The BMC has identified a prime location for this project in front of the Regional Institute of Education. The initiative aims to streamline street vending and provide a dedicated vending zone for Gupchup sellers, currently operating between Saheed Nagar Square and Nicco Park. The new vending zone will feature specially designed trolley stalls, provided free of charge to each vendor. Focus on Cleanliness and Convenience The Gupchup Market will be developed under the open vending zone model and can accommodate 30 to 40 stalls, according to reports. The area will be paved with paver blocks, beautified, and equipped with essential amenities such as parking. Stalls will operate from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., with proper lighting arranged for the evening hours to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for customers. In a move to prioritize hygiene, vendors will be required to wear gloves while serving food. This is a part of the BMC’s initiative to not only create a more organised vending system but also to improve the hygiene standards of the popular street food. Mayor’s Vision for a Clean and Organised Market Mayor Sulochana Das expressed her excitement about the new initiative, stating, “Gupchup is beloved by people, and it’s sold everywhere. We wanted to create an organised space for vendors, away from the chaos of roadside vending. This area was previously unused, so we decided to clean it up and turn it into a dedicated Gupchup market. Vendors will now have a designated place to do business, ensuring a cleaner, safer environment.” She further added, “This experiment will not only help reduce traffic congestion but also ensure cleanliness. We are also providing vendors with a covered trolley stall, and they will be required to wear gloves while serving.” Variety and Choice for Customers In line with the initiative’s goal to improve convenience for consumers, the new market will offer various types of Gupchup, including Dahi Gupchup and Pudina Special Gupchup, catering to different tastes. With a centralised location for vendors, both customers and food sellers can enjoy a more structured and orderly business environment.
