PONDA: The Ponda Market Complex, inaugurated in 2011 after an expenditure of around Rs 40 crore, stands largely deserted even after eleven years of its establishment. The project, intended to boost revenue for the town, has faced challenges as many of its shops remain unoccupied.

Back in 2009, the site now occupied by the expansive Market Complex Building was the bustling heart of Ponda Market, with locals complaining about it being too cramped. It consisted of small sheds, pathways and open areas, teeming with shoppers. The narrow pathways were overrun with encroachments by vendors, posing hardships for shoppers.

The construction of the new Market Complex was initiated following a fire incident that destroyed the original market, leading to the displacement of vendors. The market area has undergone a significant transformation with the construction of the new four-storey Market Complex in 2011. However, despite the massive investment, around 80 out of the 130-odd shops in the complex remain vacant, lending the market a deserted ambiance.

The displaced traders were later accommodated in the newly constructed complex, but currently, only some shops operate, with a large number lying unutilised.

Officials from the Ponda Municipal Council (PMC) stated that they are actively involved in the process of auctioning the vacant shops. While shops on the mezzanine floor are already operational, efforts are ongoing to auction and facilitate the operation of the remaining shops.

Vishal Fadte, a resident of Ponda, expressed concern over the underutilisation of the Market Complex, emphasising the need to make it operational to generate revenue for PMC. The substantial public investment in the project should not result in it becoming a dormant asset, he added.