Mysuru: Mini vegetable markets, or Raitha Santhe complexes, built by the erstwhile Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA), now Mysuru Development Authority (MDA), across the city are reportedly lying vacant and neglected despite significant public expenditure.
Markets remain unused
The mini-markets were constructed to provide designated spaces for vegetable vendors and help organise street-level commerce. However, according to reports, vendors have largely stayed away from the stalls, leaving several of the facilities without their intended purpose.
The vacant structures have reportedly become vulnerable to misuse, with alcoholics and substance users frequently occupying the empty spaces. The lack of regular maintenance has also left some of the complexes in a poor condition.
Public money and vacant facilities
The situation has raised concerns over the utilisation of taxpayer money spent on constructing the mini-market complexes. With the facilities remaining largely unused, questions have also emerged over the absence of effective monitoring and follow-up by the authorities.
The issue becomes particularly significant as civic authorities continue drives to remove encroachments from footpaths across Mysuru.
Could vendors be shifted here?
The vacant Raitha Santhe complexes could potentially offer an alternative space for vendors currently operating on footpaths, helping authorities address encroachment concerns while providing traders with designated areas to continue their livelihoods.
However, making these facilities functional would require proper maintenance, basic amenities, vendor participation and effective supervision.
Reviving the abandoned markets could therefore provide a practical solution to two concerns at once — preventing public infrastructure from deteriorating while helping create more organised spaces for street vendors.