The Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) and the Ministry of Development (MoD) yesterday reminded food vendors to refrain from setting up stalls without permission and indiscriminately along public roads, particularly during Ramadhan.
The proliferation of food stalls along roads raises serious safety issues, posing risks to motorists with the presence of illegally parked cars and pedestrians haphazardly crossing roads. The unregulated presence of these stalls had contributed to severe traffic congestion in the past, hampering the flow of vehicles and causing inconvenience to road users, they said in a press statement.
The ministries urged food stall vendors to operate legally in designated areas provided by the government.
“By doing so, vendors can ensure the safety of customers, minimise traffic disruptions and promote a harmonious public environment,” they added.
They also said setting up any structures over roads or road reserves without authorisation is an offence punishable under the Road Traffic Act to BND2,000 fine and one month imprisonment, adding that the Public Works Department has the authority to remove such structures and may recover expenses incurred from those operating on and owning them.
