Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, June 25: Three weeks have passed since vendors were shifted to the newly constructed, well-equipped Kadri Market building in Mallikatte. However, the old temporary market structure still remains untouched, with no signs of demolition work initiated so far.

Though Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) had earlier assured that the structure would be cleared immediately, the process has not yet begun. Locals now fear that if the building is not dismantled soon, it could become a shelter for beggars and wanderers. Already, a few individuals have been spotted resting inside the premises. With the onset of monsoon, the shop spaces within the market are providing ideal cover, residents noted.

During the relocation of vendors to the new facility, officials had promised that the temporary market would be demolished within two days. However, even after three weeks, the building remains intact. Authorities had also proposed converting the site into a parking facility or a bus bay, but none of these plans have materialised, according to complaints from the public.

The temporary market was constructed about seven years ago and is now in a dilapidated condition. Citizens have raised concerns about the structural safety, questioning who would be held accountable if someone were injured by a collapse.

Persistent parking problems

Previously, when the market operated at this location, customers would park their vehicles along the road, leading to traffic congestion. Although the market has been shifted, parking issues persist, with people continuing to leave their vehicles near the old structure. The new market is situated on the other side of the road, but many visitors continue to park near the old building, worsening the traffic situation in the area.