Chennai: Several shutters remain down at the Rs 53-crore ornamental fish trade centre in Villivakkam, inaugurated in October by then chief minister M K Stalin, as nearly 100 traders have refused to move in. Traders cite high rent, the absence of an RO water facility, and a lack of essential infrastructure such as a commercial lift to carry large tanks in the three-storey complex.
Centre's Features and Current Status
Constructed by the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) near Padi bridge, the centre houses 188 shops, a laboratory, training hall, food court, and parking for 185 cars and 22 motorcycles. Envisioned as a one-stop global hub to modernise Kolathur's decades-old ornamental fish trade, the facility remains largely vacant. Nearly 120 traders continue to operate from West Mada Street and nearby bylanes, while only around 20 shops are now functional at the centre.
Trader Perspectives
O P Manikandan, a marine fish trader who has moved into the complex, said all 188 shops have been allotted. “I received my allotment from the former CM and moved in immediately,” he said. Some traders operate from the centre only on weekends, he said. “Business is picking up now. If all shops become operational, the centre could become a vibrant attraction for visitors, particularly, children,” he said.
R Rajarajan, state president of the Tamil Nadu Aquarium Fish Breeders and Sellers' Welfare Association, said traders fear losing business. “They will realise the trade centre's potential only after moving in. Of all traders, 160 paid the advance, yet many are unwilling to shift,” he said. He stressed that an RO facility is essential, as fish cannot survive more than three days without clean water. He also called for the removal of encroachments along surrounding streets. A petition with these concerns has been submitted to PWD minister Aadhav Arjuna, who is also Villivakkam MLA.
Government Response
A source in the minister's office said requests to install solar panels to reduce costs and provide RO facilities have been received. Work is underway to make the centre fully operational, the source said. CMDA member secretary Rahul Nadh said the issues would be looked into.
