Mir Alam Mandi may crumble anytime

Mir Chowk: How long will Mir Alam Mandi Kaman stand is now the talking point at every street corner in Mir Chowk. With chunks of lime plaster falling off every now and then, vendors are on tenterhooks. Built by the Nizam and spread over five acres, the mandi, is the oldest in the city. The dilapidated condition of Mir Alam Mandi continues to pose serious threat to visitors and vendors. Even though the matter was brought to the notice of concerned authorities several times, no initiative was taken to renovate Nizam’s era structure, according to locals.

The civic body has said that it doesn’t fall under its purview, and the archeology department officials too have shown no interest. When it rains, the corrugated roof leaks, and it is as good as not having one, said a vendor who did not want to be named. There are 41 shops in total in the Mandi. No initiative was taken to renovate the oldest structure, and the Kaman of the Mandi is also in dilapidated condition where chunks of roof and walls continue to fall every day and vendors continue to operate their businesses risking their lives.

“Last week a few more chunks of Kaman walls fell down and the market officials complained to the higher authorities. Temporary repair works were done, but the entrance has been lying unattended for the last few years and no permanent works were done,” said Ahmed Ali, a vendor near the Kaman. “The officials inspected many times, but no concrete efforts were made to restore the old market. Government and archaeology department should take serious note over dilapidated condition of the complete market,” said Md Asif, a shopkeeper.

“When many model markets were constructed in the recent years, and the renovation of Murgi Chowk is in progress, then why is it not possible to come up with some sort of solution for the market and why the authorities are neglecting? They should come up with the proposals that ensure smooth functioning of the market without displacing the vendors,” said Ravi, a shopkeeper. The GHMC officials came up with an idea of renovating the market a few years back, but the proposal was opposed by the members of the market. About 80 per cent of those running business own the spaces, and hence they opposed the renovation with the fear of losing ownership.

“Since the condition of the market and Kaman is deteriorating, the GHMC authorities should come up with a new proposal,” said Mir Muzaffer Ali, president at Mir Alam Mandi Vegetable Commission Agent Association. Muzaffer also said that there are 43 wholesale shops and more than 300 vendors. “The market condition is lying in ruins for many years, and with this condition many vendors will lose their wages, and they will be left with no work to do,” he added.