Socio-Economic Challenges of Street Vendors in Lucknow: A Case Study Approach

Abstract

Street vending plays a significant role in the urban informal economy, providing livelihoods for millions while offering affordable goods and services to city dwellers. In Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, street vendors face multifaceted socio-economic challenges. This study employs a case study approach to analyze the lived experiences of street vendors in Lucknow, focusing on their struggles with legal, economic, and infrastructural barriers. Key issues explored include the lack of legal recognition, harassment from authorities, limited access to financial resources, and inadequate social security. The study also investigates the implications of urbanization, competition, and the COVID-19 pandemic on their livelihoods. Through fieldwork, in-depth interviews, and secondary data analysis, the research highlights the resilience of street vendors amidst adversity while offering policy recommendations for a more inclusive urban economy.