kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK; Kolkata | June 22, 2026: West Bengal’s Municipal Affairs Minister Agnimitra Paul made a surprise inspection of the famous and one of South Kolkata’s busiest traditional markets, Gariahat Market, on Monday. The sudden visit by the minister on the very first day of the week created a stir among traders, shoppers, and officials in the market area. However, upon witnessing the extremely unhygienic condition of the market, piles of garbage lying everywhere, widespread use of plastic, and illegal expansion of shops occupying pedestrian spaces, the minister expressed strong dissatisfaction and announced a series of strict directives and penalties aimed at transforming the condition of Gariahat Market.

Agnimitra Paul was particularly upset by the sight of garbage scattered across different corners of the market. She made it clear that maintaining cleanliness would no longer remain solely the responsibility of the municipal authorities, and shopkeepers would also be held accountable for keeping the areas in front of their establishments clean. The minister warned that any shop found with accumulated waste or garbage outside its premises would face immediate penalties. She further instructed that every shop in the market must compulsorily keep a dustbin or proper waste disposal container. Special emphasis has been placed on maintaining higher levels of hygiene in the fish and meat sections of the market, where sanitation remains a major concern.

The Municipal Affairs Minister directed officials of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation to ensure that Gariahat Market is cleaned at least three times every day. She also ordered regular cleaning and maintenance of drainage channels to prevent blockages and waterlogging. Taking a tough stance against illegal encroachments, she gave shopkeepers who had extended their businesses beyond permitted areas and occupied public walking spaces a deadline of one week to remove the unauthorized portions on their own. She also ordered the removal of illegally installed tarpaulins and warned that if the encroachments were not cleared within the stipulated period, the municipal authorities would take action.

Declaring a strong campaign against the use of plastic to protect the environment and keep the drainage system functioning properly, Agnimitra Paul announced that anyone found using banned plastic carry bags inside Gariahat Market would have to pay a fine of ₹200. To provide a practical alternative for customers and reduce dependence on plastic, she also announced plans to install automatic bag vending machines within the market.

Apart from imposing strict regulations, the minister also unveiled several development initiatives to improve the infrastructure of Gariahat Market. Better-quality public toilets and new sheds will be constructed for the convenience of both buyers and sellers. To reduce traffic congestion and bring greater discipline to the market area, illegal parking will be stopped and designated stands for bicycles and motorcycles will be developed.

The minister’s firm and uncompromising stand has sent a strong message to traders and civic authorities alike. With a one-week deadline now in place for removing illegal encroachments and improving cleanliness, all eyes are on Gariahat Market to see whether the historic marketplace undergoes the promised transformation or faces strict municipal action in the days ahead.