Nearly two years after the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) opened a fish market for about 300 vendors in the Nochikuppam area along Marina Loop Road, many vendors are still occupying pavements instead of using the market.
Earlier, these vendors were selling fish on the beach side. After restrictions were introduced, they shifted to the non-beach side pavements rather than moving into the newly built fish market. As a result, the six-foot-wide pavements have been taken over by vendors.
The encroachment stretches for nearly one kilometre, from the Light House area up to the fish market. This has caused problems for pedestrians, who are forced to walk on the road, leading to safety concerns.
Residents and commuters have complained that the situation has remained unchanged despite the availability of a proper market. They have urged civic authorities to take action and ensure that vendors use the designated fish market so that pavements are kept clear for public use.