Shopkeepers at Kolkata's historic New Market have taken charge of beautifying their iconic shopping destination. Inspired by the successful private restoration of the market's clock tower, they launched a collective effort to spruce up the central Golghar rotunda and the four wings radiating from it.
Monthly Contributions Fund Cleanliness Drive
Approximately 250 shopkeepers now contribute five hundred rupees each month toward this initiative. The SS Hogg Market Traders' Association manages these funds to implement various improvements throughout the market complex.
Comprehensive Cleaning and Maintenance
The association hired eight dedicated housekeeping staff members. These workers clean and sweep the four corridors of G Block twice every day. This additional cleaning complements the regular work performed by Kolkata Municipal Corporation staff at this heritage market owned by KMC.
Beyond routine dusting and sweeping, workers tackled stubborn paan and gutka stains on the Golghar's pillars. They thoroughly washed these areas and applied sanitization measures. The association also covered drains to allow proper water percolation while preventing litter from clogging the drainage system.
Infrastructure Improvements and Greenery
To combat littering problems, the association installed six large dustbins in strategic locations. They distributed 110 smaller bins to individual shops lining the four market wings. Mijanur Rehman, an executive committee member of the association, explained that 125 shops participate in the beautification drive. Fifteen shops already had their own bins when the distribution began.
The beautification efforts extended to adding greenery throughout the market. Workers placed 110 potted plants around the rotunda and along the four wings, bringing natural elements to the historic shopping space.
Shoppers Notice and Appreciate Changes
Anuradha Dutta, a shopper from Jodhpur Park, expressed delight at the market's improved appearance. She observed a positive vibe returning to the market after a long time. Dutta commended the shopkeepers' efforts as other shoppers posed for photographs at the freshly cleaned Golghar.
Municipal Support and Future Plans
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation granted permission for the association's beautification work and enhanced illumination in G Block. The market department pledged continued support for traders' efforts to improve the market's image and atmosphere.
Looking ahead, the association plans to install benches at the rotunda. Navin Israni, another executive member, noted that shoppers currently have no place to rest, particularly elderly visitors. The association intends to place benches at the Golghar first, followed by stools at individual shops designated exclusively for customers.
Collaborative Spirit Drives Transformation
Association president Ashok Gupta credited young members' enthusiasm for making the makeover initiative possible. He expressed gratitude toward KMC for extending support and shared hopes of transforming the market into a hygienic and attractive shopping destination for all visitors.
