In Kochi, a popular city hangout faces disruption as twenty food vending kiosks along the Queen's Walkway have stayed shut for more than two weeks. Hundreds of daily visitors to this favourite spot now experience significant inconvenience due to the closure.
Contract Expiry Leads to Shutdown
The shops pulled down their shutters after the contract period with the Goshree Islands Development Authority (Gida) expired last month. Gida owns Chathiyath Road, where the kiosks are located. The old contractor was permitted to operate the kiosks until January 4, but was then instructed to remove them. If he fails to do so, Gida plans to dismantle the structures and auction them as scrap.
New Tender and Contractor Selection
Gida recently conducted an auction for the kiosks, attracting twenty-one vendors during the tender process. Interestingly, the contractor who originally set up the existing kiosks participated but only secured sixth position in the bidding. The new contract will span three years, offering a fresh start for the walkway's vending operations.
Gida's Plans for Beautification and Uniformity
A Gida official explained the authority's vision for the area. "When we invited advertisements for the tender, Gida clearly stated that the contractor must shoulder responsibility for beautifying the entire infrastructure, landscape, waste management, and walkway," the official said. "Currently, the condition is poor, including equipment in the open gym. We will hold a meeting soon to decide on removing the old kiosks and installing new ones by the new contractor."
The new contractor is expected to install makeshift, repurposed container-model kiosks. Gida aims to make all kiosks uniform in nature, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the Queen's Walkway. Additionally, the winning contractor will be required to maintain the walkway's lighting, with around 365 lights currently functional.
Background on Previous Contractor Delays
The previous contractor's tenure began in December 2022, but it took over a year to complete the construction of all kiosks. This delay highlights some of the challenges faced in maintaining the walkway's amenities. The closure now underscores the need for efficient management and timely transitions to avoid inconveniencing the public.
As Kochi residents and visitors await a resolution, the focus remains on how Gida will implement its plans to revitalize this key urban space. The upcoming meeting and subsequent actions will be crucial in restoring normalcy to the Queen's Walkway.
