Small businesses and shops have borne the brunt of metro construction disruptions.
What’s it about? Travelling across some sections of Chennai, there’s the common sight of the metro phase 2 taking shape. While the metro has eased commute in the city for some, it has been a nightmare for others, like small traders and businesses. With traffic diversions and disruptions, many shops incurred losses or were forced to close.
- Traders have asked officials to provide some compensation. When they complained to Metro officials about an 8-month traffic diversion plan, they were informed it could be extended to a year or more. With bus stops shifted, shops close by have had to close.
- For pedestrians, it’s hard to get to the shops. Private vehicles have encroached on pavements, and people often have to wade through dense traffic. Several stretches with hospitals don’t have adequate space for ambulances.
Who said what? A Shankar Udupa, owner of the Vishwa Sagar Hotel in Ayanavaram, said there’s no way for people to visit since the entrance is partially closed. He said it’s a struggle to keep the lights on. V Santhosh of the Pure Cinema bookstore said the store’s cafe is doing poorly due to the pollution.
(Image credits: Chennai Metro Rail’s Twitter post)