Unveiling Insecurity and Vulnerability: Impact of Renovation among Vendors in Puducherry

The paper aims to understand how the renovation of the Goubert market in Puducherry intersects with the economic, social, and emotional vulnerabilities associated with the market vendors. The reconstruction of one of the oldest markets in Puducherry, established during French rule, had been proposed as a project under Smart City Mission, and presently, the preparations for the demolition are underway. Having spent decades in the market, vendors are emotionally attached to the market space they call home. As such, vendors are being driven by insecurity as the so-called development would act as a means of displacement. Relocation creates insecurity among the vendors about the duration of the project completion, relocation area, and assurance of being relocated in the same space. Moreover, losing customers and the unpredictability of earnings add to their vulnerabilities. By and large, the debate around urban development has been elitist in nature as it revolves around beautification and creating green spaces, among others. Meanwhile, the voices of those directly affected by the redevelopment projects, in this case, market vendors, have largely been sidelined. In this light, the paper asks: How will the renovation impact the vendors in the market? How do they perceive the redevelopment of the market? To understand the perceived impact of the renovation by the vendors, this qualitative study uses observations and interviews among the vendors, shopkeepers, customers, and municipal officials to get a holistic picture.