Marine Drive to Be Hung Out to Dry?

Residents and merchants miffed with corporation over plans to relocate nearly 3,000 street vendors to Shanmugham Road

- ANU KURUVILLA @ Kochi

Residents and merchants of Marine Drive have voiced concern about Kochi corporation's reported plan to relocate street vendors to Shanmugham Road.

The Marine Drive Stakeholders Association (MDSA) warns that the move could negatively affect residents, merchants, and tourists, adding that it may lead to problems similar to those seen on Broadway, if implemented without proper evaluation.

Dr Thomas Nechupadam, executive committee member of MDSA, said, "This is a prime stretch which is very valuable in terms of many aspects, primarily tourism. Already, the Queen's Walkway, which had been given a makeover, has lost its sheen due to the multitude of street vendors who have set up shop. Matters have come to such a pass that the very thought of a walk on the stretch, especially at night, gives people the jitters."