IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON LIVELIHOODS OF STREET VENDORS IN DHAKA CITY, BANGLADESH

Abstract

The COVID-19 outbreak created the most significant challenge after World War II, and Bangladesh is one of the top 33 countries that have been affected. Street vendors in Dhaka city are an integral part of urban economies. Since the COVID-19 pandemic affected all areas, they also suffered from this situation. The study aims to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the livelihoods of street vendors. To attain the objectives, primary data were collected from 122 respondents using simple random sampling in three areas of Dhaka city with a pre-tested questionnaire in March-April 2022. Descriptive statistics and the livelihood assessment index (LAI) method were used to analyze the data. The results showed that COVID-19 had a negative impact on the livelihoods of street vendors. The pandemic affected different capitals of the sustainable livelihood framework (SLF) in different ways, with social capital extended and financial and human capital compensating, while other capital remained constant. Street vendors' household income decreased during the pandemic, and though many were expected to migrate to the village, only a few did. Street vendors managed to sustain their livelihoods through vending businesses, taking loans from various sources, and spending their previous savings. To protect this vulnerable group from future similar events, they need to be encouraged to save more and strengthen their social capital. This study provides a clear understanding of the adverse effects of COVID-19 on the livelihoods of street vendors in Dhaka city. It highlights the need for effective policy measures to mitigate the impact in the future.