News

Roadside fare

Many people try their hand at being street food vendors post-lockdown

View(s):

The COVID-19 pandemic has dealt a crippling blow to the livelihoods of people. Many have lost their jobs and businesses due to the devastating economic impact brought on by the pandemic.

Pix and story by Sameera Weerasekara

Driven by desperation to feed their families and themselves, these people have taken to other trades in a bid to survive. Quite a few have opted to sell various produce, food and other items from their personal vehicles.

There has been a veritable explosion of people selling such items from their vehicles after the lockdown.

Unfortunately, this has also had its drawbacks. The vehicles are parked on the side of busy roads and have become a hindrance to other motorists and pedestrians.

This is not to suggest that authorities should crack down on the practice, as police are now seen to be doing in some areas. It shows that while the people have found ways to lift up their economies, the Government has not shown an interest in assisting them. It surely can’t be that hard to find some designated spots where people can park their vehicles and sell their wares without any hindrance.