Vendors at Ahmedabad Railway Junction are feeling the heat as redevelopment plans threaten their livelihoods. Four catering units on Platform 1 have been closed for two months, with construction yet to start. Over 350 vendors rely on this station for income, impacting nearly 2,000 family members.
One vendor expressed concerns about losing their stall: “The redevelopment work is welcome, but our livelihood shouldn’t be lost in the process,” they said. They urged officials to provide alternative space within the station instead of leaving them without options.
As vendors seek temporary space elsewhere, they’re worried about additional closures on Platforms 4-5 and 6-7 as construction continues. Another vendor noted that new plans are underway for Platforms 8 through 12, emphasizing the need for arrangements for existing stalls before any new ones are considered.
The situation isn’t entirely new; previous relocations have occurred due to operational needs. A Railway Board circular from January 2021 allows shifts when necessary due to construction or other emergent requirements.
Recent court rulings also support these vendors’ rights. In April 2025, the Delhi High Court mandated the relocation of a kiosk affected by redevelopment, while in February 2026, the Gujarat High Court ordered that Shree Krishna Catering Services be provided a new location during ongoing renovations.
Meanwhile, progress on a new station building has reached its thirteenth floor as of September 2026. With every passing day, uncertainty looms over these vendors and their future at one of India’s busiest railway stations.