Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) is set to take a historic step by introducing the Ehsaas Rehribaan Livelihood Protection Bill 2025, aimed at protecting the province’s street economy worth Rs380 billion.
The new law is designed to provide legal security to around 140,000 street vendors, who often face harassment, illegal displacement, and extortion.
Under this legislation, authorities will not be allowed to remove vendors or their stalls without proper notice or legal justification. This ensures that street businesses are safeguarded and can operate without fear of sudden action.
The bill also guarantees due-process protections, helping vendors to defend their rights if disputes arise.
Beyond protection, the law aims to integrate street vendors into the formal economy. It will provide access to microfinance, credit, insurance, and emergency support, helping vendors improve their income stability and reduce poverty.
Officials hope that this support will also encourage entrepreneurship and allow vendors to grow their businesses safely and sustainably.
KPK will become the first province in Pakistan to officially recognize the rights of street vendors through legislation.
The government believes this law will not only secure livelihoods but also strengthen the local economy by ensuring vendors can operate legally and safely.
By formalizing these protections, KPK sets an example for other provinces, showing that supporting small businesses and street vendors is essential for economic growth and social justice.
This step is expected to provide long-term benefits for both vendors and the broader community.
