LUCKNOW, June 13 -- Amid controversy surrounding the proposed model vending zone near Gautam Buddha Shanti Upvan Park-2, Sector-H, LDA Colony, the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has prepared an official letter to formally ask the Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) to halt the project over concerns regarding public spaces, pedestrian safety and environment. LDA vice-chairman Prathamesh Kumar is likely to ask the municipal commissioner to ensure that vending zones are not developed around parks in the area. The letter is yet to be officially signed by the LDA vice-chairman. According to the authority, the provincial division of the Public Works Department had issued a no-objection certificate (NOC) on January 21, 2025, for the establishment of a model vending zone. However, LDA said the proposed structures would surround the adjoining park from all sides, restricting fresh air circulation and adversely affecting the area's environment, as stated in letter. The authority is also believed to have objected to the ongoing civil work, stating that the footpath had been removed to make way for permanent structures, and warning that the reduced space available for pedestrians could increase risk of accidents. LDA said that residents had already raised objections to the project and that the issue had received media attention. It asked the municipal corporation to prevent the development of vending zones around parks in the locality. The intervention may come amid concerns over traffic congestion and emergency access linked to project. On June 10, residents and commuters gathered near the under-construction site at Gautam Buddha Shanti Upvan Park in Sector-H and demanded that the work be stopped. On May 22 last, HT had reported about the upcoming vending zone despite authorities removing encroachments and stressing unobstructed access to hospitals after a fire at Lok Bandhu Shri Raj Narayan Combined Hospital exposed gaps in emergency response. Vidyawati Ward-III corporator Nirmala Singh had earlier opposed the project. On May 23, she wrote to Sarojini Nagar MLA Rajeshwar Singh, alleging that the vending zone could turn the stretch into a "red zone" clogged by vendors and parked vehicles, posing a threat to ambulances and other emergency vehicles. The issue gained further attention after divisional commissioner Vijay Vishwas Pant ordered a site inspection following reports highlighting concerns over traffic movement and access to hospitals in aftermath of Lok Bandhu hospital fire. htc...