In Cuttack, a state-of-the-art food court built at a cost of Rs 8.5 crore near the iconic Barabati Stadium stands locked and non-operational, more than three months after its high-profile inauguration. The project, which was unveiled by Housing and Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra on August 31, 2024, was envisioned as a hub for hygienic food and a boost for local tourism and livelihoods but has failed to serve a single customer.
Project Promise Meets Ground Reality
The ambitious initiative by the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) features 75 modern kiosks and was constructed between 2023 and 2024. Its primary goals were to provide a clean, permanent vending space and to curb unregulated roadside selling around the stadium, especially during major sporting events. However, the inability to allot these shops has left the facility in a state of neglect and sparked resentment among the very vendor community it aimed to help.
"The food court was supposed to give us a permanent and hygienic space. We were hopeful after the inauguration, but months have passed and nothing has moved," said Laxmidhar Behera, a street food vendor who operates near the stadium. Vendors point out that they are missing out on brisk business opportunities with frequent events at Barabati Stadium.
Signs of Neglect and Public Frustration
Local residents and activists have raised alarms as the unused infrastructure begins to deteriorate. Abhaya Pattnaik, a social activist, highlighted the waste of public money and warned that prolonged closure would lead to significant maintenance issues.
The neglect is already visible. Suresh Das, a resident of Buxi Bazar, noted, "As huge money was spent, several umbrellas, lights, plants, trees and structures were installed. Now many lights are missing. The facility should at least be barricaded to prevent theft. It's unfortunate to witness such a big project lying defunct."
Official Reasons and Promises of Action
CMC officials have acknowledged the delay, attributing it to procedural hurdles. A senior civic official stated that issues related to vendor selection, operating guidelines, and inter-departmental coordination are being resolved. The corporation aims to make the food court functional soon.
Echoing this sentiment, Mayor Subhash Singh said, "Some technical and policy-related matters caused the delay, but we are in the final stages of resolving them. The kiosks will be allotted transparently, and the food court will be made operational at the earliest."
Once finally operational, the Barabati food court is expected to transform the area, offering citizens a dedicated, regulated food destination and putting an end to chaotic roadside vending. For now, the wait continues, and the promise of a vibrant culinary and tourism spot remains locked behind closed doors.
