Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi announced on Thursday that his government has drafted the province’s first legislation aimed at protecting street vendors.
He said the “Ehsaas Cart Vendors Employment Protection Bill 2025” has been prepared and will soon be sent to the provincial cabinet for approval before being presented in the assembly.
Afridi stated that KP is now the first province to formally recognise and protect the rights of cart vendors. Under the proposed law, anti-encroachment actions will not be allowed without prior notice.
The legislation will also ensure vendors’ access to microfinance loans, insurance, and emergency support. It includes the creation of secured vending zones where vendors will operate with legal protection.
“The street vending certificate will legally safeguard vendors, and their daily earnings will come under the government’s umbrella,” the chief minister said.
He added that vendors will have representation in the newly formed Tehsil Vending Committees, giving them a voice in local decision-making.
Afridi said the government aims to support street vendors and integrate them into the formal economy through this landmark initiative.
