The single-storey market complex of agriculture produce market committee (APMC) at Dhanbad is lying in shambles.
Established in 2006 less than 200 meters away from the district headquarters with about 85 shops, the market was aimed at providing livelihood to physically challenged people.
Only a dozen of shops are functional, while the majority lie in ruins from either being unoccupied or due to poor upkeep.
Unauthorised possession is another major issue as many physically challenged allottees have sublet their shops to others. Many of the damaged and vacant shops have turned into gambling and liquor dens, causing nuisance for customers and adjoining shop keepers.
Several attempts to renovate damaged shops and make fresh allotments have been made, including the APMC board sending a proposal to the state government in 2018. But nothing has happened ever since.
Damaged shops inside the market. Gautam Dey
A shopkeeper in Binod Market, Hirapur, situated a few yards away from the APMC market complex said, “When the market complex was launched in 2006, we were happy about the prospect of increased customer flow. Now, as most shops are dilapidated, with some rightful allottees abandoning their shops, the situation is worse than ever. Frequent brawls break out in the market and the premises are inhospitable for customers.”
Another shopkeeper at the Zila Parishad Market situated in front of APMC market complex said, “Miscreants usually haunt the marketplace to consume liquor bought from the store nearby and create an atmosphere of total anarchy, including harassment of women.”
Shivji Tiwari, secretary of the Agriculture Produce Market Complex, said, “We have sent a detailed proposal to the state government for renovation of existing shops and also making fresh allotments. The government is yet to take action; if needed we will send a fresh proposal again.”
Dhanbad, Sub Divisional Officer, Raj Maheshwaram, said, “We will look into the issue and after checking details, take steps to revive the market as per norms.”
