Key Facts
Mandi's Indira Market, once considered the heart of the city, is now in a dilapidated state due to severe neglect and lack of maintenance. The market houses 248 shops, but its infrastructure has deteriorated significantly, causing inconvenience to both shopkeepers and customers.
Details of Deterioration
The market is plagued by a tangled mess of wires hanging overhead, while walls are covered with posters and pamphlets from various institutions, marring its aesthetic appeal. Most of the milky lights installed on the roof are non-functional. The 'I Love Mandi' and 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' selfie points, created to attract tourists, are now in damaged condition.
Drainage issues are a major concern. Due to improper disposal of dirty water, drains emit a foul smell, attracting flies and mosquitoes. Shopkeepers have been forced to cover the drains with sheets to mitigate the stench and pest problem.
Impact on Shopkeepers and Public
Ashok Sharma, president of the Business Association, said, "The biggest problem occurs during the rainy season when dirty water enters the shops." He added that despite multiple complaints to the Nagar Nigam and District Administration, no concrete action has been taken.
Another shopkeeper, Harsh, highlighted the vandalism by anti-social elements: "Anti-social elements are damaging the beauty of the market. The selfie point and 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' sign board are repeatedly being damaged. To avoid the foul smell from the drains and the problem of flies and mosquitoes, the drains have to be covered with sheets."
Sanjay Kumar, a trader, pointed out issues on the roof: "There is a crowd of squatters on the roof of the market. Due to the damaged drainage system on the roof, the plaster of the shop roofs is peeling off. Apart from this, the children's swings and mini gym equipment are also damaged, causing disappointment among the people."
What Readers Should Know
- The market's condition is worsening due to lack of regular maintenance by authorities.
- Encroachments by migrants on the roof and illegal hoardings add to the chaos.
- Shopkeepers demand immediate intervention from Nagar Nigam and District Administration to restore the market's glory.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main problems in Indira Market, Mandi?
Key issues include tangled wires, poor drainage causing foul smell and waterlogging, damaged selfie points and sign boards, encroachments by squatters, and broken children's swings and gym equipment.
Who is responsible for the maintenance of Indira Market?
The Nagar Nigam (Municipal Corporation) and District Administration are responsible for maintenance, but shopkeepers say no concrete steps have been taken despite complaints.
How many shops are there in Indira Market?
There are 248 shops in Indira Market, including toilets, fast food outlets, clothing stores, and mobile shops.