Chennai: The Madras high court has granted one month to authorities to set the Koyambedu market in order and file an affidavit along with the photographs to show how it is working.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Justice R. Mahadevan posted to October 4, further hearing of a petition from Koyambedu Kaai Kani Malar Viyabarigal Nalasangam, which sought a direction to the authorities not to allot any portion/ shops by converting the loading and unloading (ramp) area near gate no.5, numbering about 29 Thanthai Periyar Vegetable Market in Koyambedu Wholesale Market Complex to any individuals.
The petitioner also sought a direction to the authorities to restore the amenity of loading and unloading (ramp) to the traders of the Koyambedu Wholesale Market Complex and other traders.
In its order, the bench said counsel appearing for CMDA has produced the original plan, which in substance supports the allegation of the petitioner.
“We however, cannot countenance the suggestion that CMDA is unable to control the market and therefore, certain actions contrary to the sanctioned plans are being taken. If there is a necessity to change the plan on account of the ground realities, then the plan is required to be amended first before any steps are taken. If we accept the excuse that the CMDA appointed committee is unable to carry out its task, then that committee is required to be superseded and someone should take over the task. We were inclined to appoint an independent committee on account of the helplessness being expressed by the CMDA, but advocate general has intervened and assured that proper steps will be taken to see that the discipline of the market is maintained, whether by making this committee functional or by appointing a proper committee, which is capable of monitoring the market”, the bench added and granted a month to authorities to set the house in order.
