Stench drives customers away from Russell Market

Stench drives customers away from Russell Market
New Indian Express

BANGALORE: Even though hi-tech malls and slick super-markets have taken the city by storm, Russell Market at Shivajinagar still retains its importance as a major supplier of imported fruits and vegetables. And it has a rich history, extending back to 75 years.

It’s unique in several respects - all kinds of imported goods are available here, while the mind-boggling variety fruits and vegetables on sale leave housewives happy.

But Government negligence has led to its fading glory. Today, it is equally known for its dirt and stench.

Established by Governor Russell in 1930 for the convenience of the British Bangalore, it imported fruits, vegetables and even fish from England, making them available for local consumption.

The main lime-mortar market building is built in the Indo-Islamic style with two minarets at the entrance and traditional Islamic Kamans inscribed on the ceiling.

The wide range of rare imported fruits, vegetables, flowers and fish have ready customers. “We supply these to five-star hotels and super-markets, in retail and wholesale,” said Suleiman, a fruit-seller.

But though unique, Russell Market has become a hell for customers.

There is garbage on the floor and the stench from fish and mutton shops overpowers the fragrance of fruits and flowers. An improper underground drainage system and the accumulation of waste from the meat market, add to the woes of the customers.

Parked cars block even the entrance of the market. “I come here regularly and the situation has not changed much for the last three years,” says Cristina, a customer.

“Yes, Bangalore City Corporation (BCC) workers clean the market daily, but no proper care is taken of the drainage system and the vehicle parking is not regulated,” said Anwar, a flower and garland merchant.

When contacted, Shivajinagar Councilor Mumtaz Begum told this website’s newspaper that the market was cleaned twice a day, but it cannot be totally clean as huge quantities of waste from fruit, vegetable and meat stalls accumulates every day.

“After the withdrawal of parking fees, more private vehicles are parked here. However, we will try our best to make the market clean and stench- free,” she said.

If the administration continues to remain apathetic, Russell Market could gradually lose not only its customers but also sheen.