The Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) is under fire for prolonged delays in auctioning off the completed Kadri Market, a project initiated and completed several years ago. Constructed at a cost of Rs 10.75 crore by contractor Prabhakar Yeyyadi, the market was slated to finish by August 2020 but saw final touches only in December 2022.
Project Background and Criticism
The foundation stone for Kadri Market was laid on March 26, 2018, with an original estimated cost of Rs 12.30 crore. Despite completion, bureaucratic inertia has prevented MCC from auctioning the market, which could have generated substantial revenue for the city. Criticism has mounted over the perceived wastage of taxpayer funds due to this delay.
Inauguration Attempts and Current Status
Efforts were made to inaugurate the market during Basavaraj Bommai’s tenure as Chief Minister, and preparations were twice made for an opening that never occurred. Recently, on November 24, 2023, an inauguration by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was canceled last minute, further frustrating stakeholders.
Market Features and Concerns
Kadri Market boasts 36 shops in the cellar for vegetable and fruit vendors, 26 shops on the ground and first floors, and vacant spaces on higher floors designated for future office use. However, concerns linger among traders regarding the suitability of the cellar for selling perishable goods.
Auctioning Process and Current Developments
Mayor Sudhir Shetty Kannur disclosed plans to retender 20 of the cellar shops due to a lack of bids, while outsiders have shown interest in the remaining 16 shops. The MCC’s standing committee is set to decide on allocating these shops based on bids received.
Call for Action
Citizens and traders alike urge MCC to swiftly conclude the auction process to activate Kadri Market fully and realize its economic potential.