Mangaluru: MCC evicts flower vendors from Hampankatta footpaths ahead of Janmashtami

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Sep 4, 2026: Flower vendors who arrived from different parts of Karnataka to sell flowers on footpaths around Hampankatta in Mangaluru ahead of Sri Krishna Janmashtami have reportedly faced difficulties following strict enforcement by the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC).

In recent days, the MCC has been carrying out regular drives against small vendors operating on footpaths. As a result, flower sellers who had travelled from distant districts carrying flowers for the festival were unable to conduct their business.

Acting on complaints from local residents, MCC officials reportedly conducted a drive and removed the vendors from the area.

Every year, flower growers and traders from Hassan, Mandya and other districts visit Mangaluru during festivals such as Chauthi, Nagar Panchami, Sri Krishna Janmashtami and Vijayadashami. They typically sell flowers for a day or two before returning to their respective places. However, vendors who arrived this year on the eve of Janmashtami were reportedly taken by surprise by the action.

On Thursday, MCC officials conducted an enforcement drive in and around Hampankatta against street vendors allegedly occupying footpaths and conducting business illegally.

The vendors were removed from the spot for allegedly occupying footpaths in a manner that obstructed the free movement of pedestrians.

Officials said footpaths are meant for the safe and convenient movement of the public, particularly pedestrians, and that unauthorised encroachment would not be permitted.