The longstanding issue of vendors on Rue Desforges in Port-Louis, Mauritius, remains unresolved. Despite numerous interventions by authorities, the situation has seen little change over the past twenty years. Ehsan Juman, a Labour Party MP, has recently weighed in on the issue, advocating for the rights of the vendors. He discussed the matter with the mayor of Port-Louis and the Assistant Commissioner of Police, emphasizing the need for a structured and disciplined approach to allow vendors to continue their activities.
The municipal authorities have reiterated their stance on enforcing regulations, citing a November 2026 notice that prohibits irregular commercial installations on sidewalks and public thoroughfares. However, defining a framework for street vendors who rely on these sales for their livelihood remains a challenge. The issue has persisted through various government administrations, with temporary solutions and relocations being proposed and contested over the years.
In 2008, a police operation on Rue Desforges led to tensions, resulting in temporary permits being issued. The Supreme Court ruled in favor of traders in 2012, highlighting the long-standing disputes over public space occupation. In 2016, the government proposed relocating 963 vendors to alternative sites, but the plan was met with resistance. The Victoria Urban Terminal, inaugurated in 2022, aimed to provide a structured solution, but low occupancy rates and financial concerns have been raised.
The Victoria Urban Terminal was designed to accommodate around 1,000 vendors, but as of May 2022, only 50 had taken possession of their allocated spaces. The National Audit Office has highlighted the financial implications of low occupancy and unpaid debts, with the state covering approximately Rs 21.1 million and Rs 23.5 million in separate periods. These concerns have been echoed by vendors and officials, emphasizing the need for a viable solution.
Alternative locations have been proposed, including the Champ-de-Mars area, which was considered in 2019 but deemed unfavorable by vendors. Other sites, such as near the Citadelle and rue Labourdonnais, have been mentioned, but no official decision has been confirmed. Any new site would need to consider factors such as accessibility, transportation, and the impact on local residents.
In November 2025, a temporary night market was authorized on Rue Desforges, offering vendors a commercial outlet during the festive season. However, concerns from traders and residents have been raised regarding access, parking, security, and economic consequences. A decision on the market's implementation remains pending, with a committee led by Minister Ranjiv Woochit consulting with stakeholders.
As the situation on Rue Desforges continues, the need for a sustainable solution grows. With authorities enforcing regulations and vendors advocating for their rights, a balance between competing interests must be struck. The government faces the challenge of addressing the concerns of all parties involved, ensuring that any solution is equitable and effective in resolving the longstanding issue.
Key points
- The ongoing dispute on Rue Desforges highlights the complexities of balancing vendor livelihoods with municipal regulations and public space management.
- Alternative solutions, such as the Victoria Urban Terminal and temporary night markets, have been proposed but face challenges and concerns from stakeholders.
- A sustainable solution will require careful consideration of the needs and concerns of all parties involved, including vendors, residents, and authorities.
