GUWAHATI, June 26 � The deteriorating condition of the markets in the capital city have made purchase of the most essential goods an ordeal for the consumers. The stench emitting from mounting garbage, lack of proper drainage and waterlogging have been some of the ailments of the markets here though traders under their respective market committees have always been demanding the basic facilities from the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC).
�The rotting smell near the Ganeshguri market is so nauseating that I usually avoid buying vegetables and fruits from this place. I keep at a distance while my mother does the purchasing,� said Niva Gogoi of Wireless.
It is not the consumers alone who brave the stinking smell and buy their essential supplies. Everyone who takes the Ganesh Mandir, Ganeshguri route have to either hold their breath or press their handkerchiefs to their nose.
Pointing out that there were some other major problems faced by the markets, the Save Guwahati Build Guwahati (SGBG) said that some of these markets like the Fancy Bazar have become a place of anarchy because a section have been flouting the norms.
�Once upon a time, Fancy Bazar was running smoothly but encroachment on several roads by a section of traders is now causing great inconvenience to the consumers,� said the SGBG, adding that the authorities concerned have failed to shut down the illegal trade on the encroached roads.
Calling for strict action to free the encroached roads, the SGBG said that only then movement of passengers would be hassle-free in the market.
The SGBG also alleged that the municipal body has been collecting a daily fine of Rs 30 from the traders who have encroached on the roads and has demanded an inquiry into this matter.
On the other hand, the SGBG, pointing at the Uzanbazar Market, regretted that despite assurances, this market that was reduced to ashes twice in the past has not been built. It needs to be mentioned here that this market was once known for its beautiful ambience, but today its sordid appearance hurts the denizens of the city who still cherish memories of visiting this market.
The SGBG has called upon the Government to initiate the necessary steps to bring succour to the markets and consumers by improving the facilities and doing away with the lessee system and goonda tax.
