Gender dynamics in space appropriation by street vendors – the case of Chennai city, India

Street vending is an integral component of our cities, the dynamics of which are strongly impacted by gender. This study examines street vending in Chennai using a mixed-method approach. Results show that female street vendors, often entering the trade later in life, are economically vulnerable and are strongly influenced by patriarchal relationships in their spatial decisions. Men, by contrast, show higher investments, wider social networks, and have a greater impact on the public space. Street vendors’ conflicts and socio-spatial disputes over public space are directly linked to their spatial appropriations, which often show gender-specific differences. The paper addresses the significant factor of gender and its impact on space appropriation through the variables of socio-economic profile, institutional frameworks, social networks, and usage of spatial resources. It argues for gender-sensitive urban spatial solutions for sustainable use of public places.