Exploring the Impact of the Pandemic on the Livelihood of Street Vendors

Abstract

The pandemic has profoundly affected the livelihood of street vendors, exacerbating economic challenges as lockdowns and restrictions hinder their ability to earn a living. This study examined the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the livelihoods of street vendors in the Rawalpindi district, focusing on the challenges faced due to work cessation. The data from 50 street vendors in rural and urban areas of Rawalpindi was collected through a Likert scale questionnaire. Logistic regression was used to analyze the impact of different factors on the livelihoods of street vendors. The pandemic's impact on street vendors is significant due to its insights into economic inequalities, the vital role of street vendors in local economies, and the need for targeted interventions to support this vulnerable group. The findings shed light on the vulnerabilities and hardships experienced by street vendors during this unprecedented crisis. The study concludes that the pandemic has significantly affected street vendors' livelihoods, resulting in financial losses, inability to meet basic needs, food insecurity, health risks, and limited access to credit and social security benefits.