Srinagar, Sep 22: MLA Khan sahib Saif-ud-Din Bhat on Tuesday proposed in the J&K Legislative Assembly a Switzerland-inspired model of hygienic food carts for vendors at the tourist meadows of Doodhpathri and Tosamaidan.

Speaking during the session, Bhat said the initiative aims to upgrade the existing vending system with standardised, clean and well-designed carts equipped with covered storage, waste-disposal units and potable water facilities. He emphasised that the move would empower local vendors rather than displace them, boosting both livelihoods and tourist confidence.
The MLA suggested training vendors in food safety, eco-friendly packaging and customer service, and urged the Tourism and Health departments to frame a simple, affordable regulatory framework with periodic inspections.
Stakeholders welcomed the proposal, noting it would improve sanitation and waste management at the ecologically sensitive meadows. Bhat urged the government to launch the concept as a pilot project at both destinations before expanding it to other tourist sites across Jammu and Kashmir.