Mahdi Chamran, the head of the Tehran City Council, discussed various topics in the four hundred and fortieth council meeting, ranging from congratulating Iranian wrestlers to reviewing the auditing of municipal organizations. However, among these, the issue of protecting sidewalks and preventing the uncontrolled growth of kiosks became one of the central topics of the meeting.
Criticism of the Change of Use of Kiosks
Narjes Soleimani, the head of the Legal and Supervision Committee of the council, began the meeting by criticizing the increase in the number of kiosks and their unauthorized change of use. She stated that the permits for these kiosks were initially issued for the sale and distribution of newspapers, but now, with the decrease in publications, their use has shifted towards selling other items. Soleimani emphasized: "Citizens have the right to ask us why a permit has been issued in another area while we cannot issue a new permit."
Prohibition of Adding Kiosks
Mahdi Chamran also emphasized the prohibition of any addition of kiosks in the city. He stated that the business organization must deal with violations and said: "Our request from citizens is not to apply for kiosk permits. The council and the judiciary emphasize that no kiosk should be added." He also referred to the condition of some sidewalks that have been blocked due to the unauthorized activities of kiosks and restaurants, obstructing citizens' passage.
Problems Arising from Obstruction and Street Vendors
Mahdi Aghariyan, the head of the Legal Committee of the City Council, further pointed out the problems arising from obstruction and street vending in public spaces and the metro. He said: "Citizens have repeatedly contacted us and complained that there is no space left for passing on sidewalks. Part of the pathway is occupied by street vendors, and this reduces safety and comfort for movement." Aghariyan emphasized that serious measures must be taken to solve these problems.
Emphasis on the Legal Activity of Councils
Mahdi Chamran responded to reporters' questions on the sidelines of the meeting and reacted to rumors about the possible dissolution of councils. He emphasized that councils cannot be dissolved and told reporters: "Time does not turn back, and those who think that the continuation of councils' activities is illegal should study the law." He also referred to the activities of electronic service offices in the city and stated that these offices must implement the guidelines, and the municipality must resolve existing issues.
Ultimately, the Tehran City Council meeting reflected the serious determination of council members to uphold citizens' rights and protect public pathways. Given the increasing problems arising from the change of use of kiosks and unauthorized activities, it seems that serious actions must be taken to improve the condition of pathways and sidewalks.
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