By Antonio Dey | HGP Nightly News |
Vendors operating at the Parika Market have officially relocated to a newly designated vending area on the market’s tarmac, marking a significant step toward reducing congestion and restoring order within the busy commercial hub.
The relocation followed ongoing engagements between vendors and the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development. On Monday, Minister Priya Manickchand confirmed that vendors are now settling into their new spaces, noting that the move was carried out through cooperation rather than enforcement.
“We had an agreement that the vendors would move into the location voluntarily, and there was no forceful breaking here,” Minister Manickchand said.
The relocation initiative aims to ease roadway congestion, improve traffic flow, enhance public safety, and create a more organised and accessible environment for both vendors and shoppers. Authorities have long cited roadside vending in Parika as a major contributor to traffic bottlenecks and safety risks, particularly during peak hours.
Minister Manickchand described the Parika Market transition as a model that could be replicated nationwide.
“This is just a model for how we can take this forward to every market and to bring some order to our Guyana,” she stated.
During a visit to the market on Monday night, the minister observed the relocation process firsthand and expressed satisfaction with the level of cooperation shown by vendors. She emphasised that while vendors’ livelihoods must be protected, vending practices must also meet basic standards of safety and order.
“People must be able to make a living, but it must not be unsafe for them to do so, nor should it be a nuisance to other people,” she said.
As part of the new arrangements, the minister announced that roadside vending around the Parika Market will be strictly prohibited as of December 30, 2025. She warned that any breaches of the new vending regulations will result in consequences as authorities enforce compliance and maintain order in the area.
The relocation is a major milestone in efforts to modernise market operations and improve public spaces nationwide.
