Kolkata, Sept. 20 -- Despite receiving keys to the newly constructed temporary stalls, most traders of the Bidhan Chandra Roy Market at Dharmatala have decided not to shift before the festive season ends, citing concerns over customer footfall during their peak business period.
The temporary stalls, prepared to facilitate construction of the Esplanade station of the Purple Line metro corridor, have been handed over to the traders. Interior arrangements at several shops have also started. Traders said they are likely to begin the formal shifting process after a Puja event during the Durga Puja period.
The market, known particularly for jerseys and sports goods, also houses several clothing and saree stores. Traders said the uncertainty surrounding the relocation has already affected business.
Chhaya, a ladies' garment store that has been operating in the market for more than 70 years, has witnessed low customer flow this year. The proprietor, Ashim Kumar Saha, said the extensive reports about the proposed shifting have led many regular customers to stay away.
Saree shop proprietor Rajib Saha said the festive season is the period of highest sales and shifting now could severely affect business. "This is our season of most sales. If we shift now, we will be in distress as most customers will not be willing to locate us in the new structure. We are not thinking of shifting before the festival season ends," he said.
BC Roy Market Association president Kishore Manglani said the keys have been distributed and traders are preparing the new shops. "They need time to shift as the shops have been established there for years. The owners are doing the interior arrangements in the new structure. They'll shift once that is done," he said.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.