New Market chaos

Y Merina Chishi
 

Of late, shopping in Dimapur's New Market has become a claustrophobic and harrowing experience. From the absence of a parking lot to the lack of space, New Market has become a chaotic place. It is almost impossible to walk around the market without being shoved around or getting stuck in human traffic. 

 


The narrow footpaths, half-constructed structures, unhygienic surroundings and vendors occupying every tiny bit of space have become huge problems for shoppers.

 


The absence of a parking area is perhaps the biggest problem right now. The market gets thousands of shoppers every day and everyone is faced with that problem. In most cases, people have to keep driving around the Church Road area several times over to park their cars. Sometimes people have to park far off from the market and walk back. The little space left is occupied by vendors, making it impossible for vehicles to pass through or even people to walk.  

 


There is a clear lack of concern from the authorities as the market is getting more crowded by the day. There are also other concerns like safety and hygiene. There are no fire exits or equipment in any of the shops. This makes it very dangerous for such a densely populated place. A small car can barely make its way through so it is quite evident that a fire brigade truck will not be able to enter the market in case of any eventuality. Whom shall the authorities blame, then?

 


While numerous food stall vendors and numerous eateries are located in New Market, hygiene is also another grave concern. Mosquito breeding and rodent menace around this area is well known. So flogging the market from time to time can prevent the outbreak of several diseases. Health officials also need to conduct checks at regular intervals.

 


Dimapur is a fast-growing city. Several new businesses are set up daily and New Market happens to be one of the most preferred locations. But it is also clear that Dimapur, especially the town area is running out of space. Most of the commercial buildings are privately owned. New Market is one of the few places owned partly by the government and leased out to traders. It is also a high income generating market for the Dimapur Municipal Council. So, the revenue realized can certainly be utilized to improve the condition of the market. It must ensure there is sufficient space for parking and also address other problems like overcrowding by vendors and install safety measures in the market that has clearly become congested.

 


Comments can be sent to merinachishi@gmail.com