Surat, March 13 – The ongoing delay in Surat’s metro project has created severe difficulties for traders in the Maskati area, pushing many businesses to the brink of closure. The prolonged construction work has negatively impacted the economic conditions of shopkeepers in the region.
Due to the slow progress of metro station construction at Tower Road, Maskati, businesses in the vicinity have witnessed a sharp decline in customer footfall. The closure of main roads and limited access through narrow streets have further worsened the situation, causing financial distress to local traders. The ongoing disruptions have led to increased dust, traffic congestion, and overall disarray in the area.
Traders have repeatedly appealed for compensation by submitting memorandums to the Surat Municipal Corporation Commissioner, the Mayor, and BJP leaders, urging them to expedite the metro project and provide relief measures for affected shopkeepers.
The Surat Maskati Metro Project Affected Committee has expressed serious concern over the prolonged delays. While acknowledging the importance of the metro project for the city’s development, the committee emphasized the need to address its adverse impact on local businesses and employment. They have called for immediate action to complete the project swiftly and provide adequate compensation to affected traders.
Local shopkeepers have voiced their frustration over the lack of alternative arrangements during the construction phase. The congested 7-to-10-feet-wide pathways have significantly reduced customer access, severely impacting their revenue. The dust and disorganized traffic conditions have further added to their hardships, making it difficult to sustain their businesses.
Traders have urged the authorities to accelerate the metro project’s completion and compensate them for their financial losses. They have warned that if their demands are not met, they will be forced to take protest action against the administration.
