With Indian elections coming up, traders at the Kothapet Fruit Market - Greater Hyderabad- are anticipating the shifting of the market to Koheda, which is approximately 18 km away. 170 acres of land have been allotted for the new market.
Talks of shifting the market have been ongoing since 2009, but progress was slow. Speaking to The Hans India, E Venkatesham, secretary of the market said: “We are hopeful but going by the intricacies involved, it would take at least 2-3 years. To begin with, ₹100 mln is needed to construct minimal amenities like drinking, toilet and drainage facilities.”
The estimated cost for building the new market is ₹2 to 3 billion (€25-37 mln). A proposal was sent to the Chief Minister for approval, but because of the elections the approval has been pending.
With the market already bursting at the seams, the metro rail construction has further added to the traffic congestion. The market road is often blocked because of all the trucks. Heavy vehicles cannot enter the city during day time. This has become a problem for the exporters to reach the market. If the market is shifted to Koheda vehicles can easily reach the market, said a trader. “The transport charges for exporters will also drop. As the market is planned on 170 acres, there will be much more parking space.” Kothapet fruit market imports fruits from different states. They also have imports from different countries. Imported fruits are distributed to the retailers in the city.
