Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and the Delhi government on Tuesday gave approval to a policy aimed at regulating the food truck industry in Delhi and establishing food hubs at various locations. This decision is anticipated to initiate a fresh trend in Delhi, renowned for its abundance of street food vendors and delectable snacks.
As per the officials, food trucks will have permission to operate 24/7, contributing to the city's late-night hour economy. The policy was introduced in the Delhi government's "Rozgaar Budget" for 2022-23, aimed at boosting job creation in an economy affected by Covid-19 disruptions.
Initially, the government has identified 16 locations where multiple food trucks can be set up to form food courts. If it becomes a success, this model will be expanded throughout Delhi.
The chief minister expressed that the policy is expected to create jobs and benefit the state's economy. Kejriwal stated, "This initiative will allow people in Delhi to enjoy tasty meals even late at night. It will also create numerous employment opportunities and strengthen the economy."
Delhi Food Hubs Location
According to media reports, the initial 16 food hubs will be established at various locations, including August Kranti Marg (near Hudco Place), Near Priya Cinema in Vasant Vihar, DDA Park in Rohini, Mandir Marg in Vasant Kunj, Press Enclave Road in Saket, and the parking lots of Delhi Metro stations in Rohini East, Vasant Vihar, Patel Chowk, Vishwavidyalaya, Dwarka Sector 9, Janakpuri East, and Netaji Subhash Place, among others.
The government is also in discussions with other agencies that own land, such as the Delhi Transport Corporation and the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB), to identify additional areas suitable for developing food hubs.
Food Trucks in Delhi
Officials have clarified that the overall operations under the policy will be managed by a private company, and selected food truck operators will be required to pay a "minimum license fee."
The officials stated that the policy aims to regulate the food truck sector, which has been operating in an unorganized manner. It will encourage entrepreneurs to establish proper food trucks instead of makeshift shops. The policy also promotes hygiene and aesthetic standards. Its implementation will provide Delhi residents with a diverse range of late-night delicacies, enhancing the city's dining experience.
The officials stated that food truck operators will need to register with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) as mobile vending units. Additionally, they will require no objection certificates (NOCs) from the RTO, Delhi Police, fire department, municipal corporation, and the shops and establishments department of the government.
Regarding the implementation timeline, the officials mentioned that the government will meet with various stakeholders to identify locations within the next month. They added that the draft policy will be finalized by July 31 and is expected to be approved by the state cabinet by August 31. An official, who preferred to remain anonymous, added, "The government aims to complete all processes and inaugurate food truck hubs by December 15."
