Suratkal: The temporary weekly market held on MRPL Road footpath in Suratkal for the past six to seven years has now expanded beyond control, causing severe traffic congestion and parking issues.

Despite being initially designated for one side of the road, vendors have encroached both sides, taking over parking spaces and obstructing vehicle movement. As a result, commuters and shoppers faced significant inconvenience on Wednesday.

Temporary market turns permanent, no revenue for municipality

Originally meant to be a temporary arrangement, the market has now become permanent without any official regulation or revenue collection by the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC). This has led to a situation where traders profit while the municipality deals with waste management issues.

Multiple shops by a single vendor, unchecked expansion

Rules initially allowed only one stall per vendor, but many traders have set up multiple shops. Additionally, street vendors from North Karnataka have encroached on the concrete road edges, using iron rods and parked vehicles to block traffic flow.

Parking spaces taken over

Encroachment has extended into designated parking areas, forcing vehicle owners to leave their cars and bikes at home when visiting Suratkal market. Key parking spots near Kantheri Daivasthana, Lalit Hotel, and the railway station road have all turned into makeshift market spaces.

Future concerns over further encroachment

With street vendors lining up along the widened concrete roads, parking spaces are shrinking rapidly. Despite growing chaos, the municipal corporation has yet to take action to regulate the market.

Citizens struggle due to lack of parking

A year ago, limited space was allocated for street vendors near the Primary Health Centre and Church Road based on a request by INTUC labor unions. However, with vendors now spreading everywhere, citizens are unable to find parking when they visit the market.

Mayor promises action

Mangaluru Mayor Manoj Kumar Kodikal acknowledged complaints about unauthorized market expansion and the lack of parking spaces for citizens. He assured that necessary steps will be taken to control encroachments.

Risk of accidents, need for regulation

Locals have reported that large vehicles frequently collide with two-wheelers due to market congestion. Shankaranarayana, a resident of Krishnapura, urged authorities to implement strict regulations to prevent accidents and restore order.