Street food vendors established in the Kimbulawala area have been asked to leave the place by Friday, 24th of February by Urban Development Authority, the vendors said.
Samagi Jana Balawega MP Harsha de Silva raised the issue in the Parliament this morning and urged the government not to proceed with the move.
Dr. Harsha De Silva further said that said it would put in trouble the people who are engaged in self-employment to earn a living amidst the economic crisis.
Replying to the MP Transport Minister Bandula Gunawardena the UDA had received complaints from passengers and drivers that these stalls obstruct the smooth traffic movement.
Minister Prasanna Ranatunga said these street food stalls earlier operated only on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays but it is open seven days a week now.
The Minister said complaints have been received from shop owners near that place claiming that their businesses have been affected due to this and that place where the food stalls are set up is unhygienic.
He said a meeting will be held this afternoon at Urban Development Authority (UDA) and a proper procedure would be introduced to continue their businesses.