Solan vendor market set for makeover to boost business

Facing poor footfall at the Saproon-based vendor market, stall allottees have urged the Solan Municipal Corporation (MC) to improve the layout and visibility of the stalls to attract more customers. Responding to their concerns, the MC formed a five-member committee comprising Deputy Mayor Meera Anand, Joint Commissioner Bimla Verma, Assistant Engineer Alpana Thakur, and councillors Sushma Sharma and Rajiv Kaura.

The committee recently inspected the market and identified key design flaws affecting accessibility and visibility. Based on their assessment, several modifications were recommended to revamp the space and enhance its appeal.

Rajiv Kaura said: “Shutters facing the roadside will be installed for 11 stalls to improve visibility and attract foot traffic.”

The committee also highlighted a structural issue involving a staircase that leads to the second floor but obstructs several stalls. It was decided to dismantle a portion of it and construct a redesigned staircase that allows better visibility.

To benefit the stalls facing the nearby gurdwara, the committee proposed extending the existing structure and adding a veranda towards the main road. This is expected to draw the attention of passersby and increase customer visits.

Acknowledging the deteriorated flooring, the committee announced plans for new tiling in the open and common areas. “This upgrade will not only improve safety but also add aesthetic value to the otherwise dull surroundings,” they noted.

Another major concern was inadequate lighting, which discourages evening shoppers. To address this, the committee will undertake comprehensive street lighting work, especially in dimly lit sections of the market.

In an effort to utilise the underused second floor, the committee plans to partition the space to accommodate more registered vendors from the city in an organised layout.

Mayor Usha Sharma confirmed that the MC would implement the suggested modifications soon, once the required budget is arranged.

The vendor market, comprising 55 stalls, was allotted to registered vendors in December 2023. However, the Rs 1.5 crore structure has faced numerous controversies and delays since its inception. Political tussles between BJP and Congress further hampered progress, with frequent design alterations adding to the setbacks.

The foundation stone was laid in 2017 by local MLA Dr DR Shandil. Construction dragged on for years, and although the stalls were only recently completed, the adjoining parking area had been inaugurated back in 2015 by then Health Minister Dr Rajiv Bindal. Originally intended to be a double-storey parking lot, only the ground floor was completed.

Now, with renewed efforts and focus on usability, the market is set to finally serve its intended purpose.