The restrictions imposed on the entry of vehicles to the renovated S.M. Street have been watered down because of the poor surveillance by the police and the Tourism Department. In the name of loading and unloading of goods, a number of vehicles breaks the curbs imposed by the district administration.
Though the main entrance is protected from the direct entry of goods-laden vehicles and motorbikes, all the previously blocked entrances to the street are now open. The barriers on the roads have disappeared, making it easy for vehicles.
The street was declared a no-vehicle zone as part of attempts to make it a pedestrian-friendly tourism spot for promoting the culture and heritage of the city. Despite the staunch opposition from shopkeepers and their organisations, the restriction has been strictly enforced taking into account public demand.
“The designer granite tiles on the pavement have got damaged or displaced on several stretches with the entry of vehicles. The late-night entry of vehicles in the name of unloading goods should be stopped by all means to conserve the beauty of the renovated street,” says C.V. Sajid, a regular visitor to the spot. He also points out that the entry of goods-laden vehicles from Palayam Road should be stopped permanently to protect the street.
A merchant organisation leader on the street says the vehicle ban introduced in the name of conserving the street can’t be implemented as the traders there had no other option to bring in their stock.
Traders also point out that the two buggies earlier introduced on the street with much publicity under the District Kudumbashree Mission were not operational now. They have been almost abandoned by the operators due to poor response and income, traders say.
