Waterlogging, damaged footpaths, clogged drains, and lack of adequate parking space seem to have hit the prospects of traders along MG Road hard.
Estimates by MG Road Merchants’ Association have shown that traders along the stretch have lost around 60% of their business owing to a series of issues including metro project, heavy waterlogging, choked drains, broken footpaths, and dangerously protruding electric and cable lines.
“The prestige of MG Road as the business hub of Kochi has taken a major hit over the past four years. Nearly 40% of traders have left the area, thanks to negative factors like poor infrastructure and lack of support from local bodies for keeping the commercial hub alive,” said Rajesh Nair, convener of MG Road Merchants’ Association.
The recent rain exposed the pathetic condition of the road, especially the stretch from Jos Junction to Madhava Pharmacy Junction. The entire stretch was submerged under water, and pedestrians had a tough time wading through a pool of polluted water.
“We had alerted the corporation authorities to the need to take remedial measures against waterlogging before the onset of monsoon. Traders had urged the authorities to clear clogged drains before the rain, but our pleas fell on deaf ears,” said Mr. Rajesh.
Footpaths have turned the pedestrian’s nightmare, with broken tiles found at most places. Moreover, the wide gaps between drainage slabs pose grave threat to walkers.
Besides, lack of adequate parking space poses a major challenge to small-time traders. Representatives of the association are planning to meet the Mayor, Chairman of Greater Cochin Development Authority, and officials of Kochi Metro Rail Limited, seeking their support to resolve issues such as waterlogging and damaged foothpaths.
