Chennai: Chennai corporation officials have begun talks with traders and bankers to set up Amma weekly market in Chennai. Marina beach and Mint junction are now favourite spots under examination as the venue for the proposed weekly markets that will sell essential commodities and electronics, said Ripon Building sources.
Two rounds of meetings with stakeholders and corporation authorities have been completed. All government departments have been vested with a role to play in the weekly market scheme. Horticulture and Agriculture departments will be the major contributors for the project, an informed official said.
As many 201 items have been shortlisted by the horticulture department ranging from vegetables to forest produces. Agriculture department will be supplying about 100 items including cereals and pulses.
Besides fighting inflation, the Amma market will also promote religious harmony. Hindu Religious Charities and Endowments (HR&CE) and minorities welfare department has been requested to identify suppliers for selling all prayer materials required for the devout. Candles, camphor and portraits of all religious gods will also be sold under one roof.
Fisheries department had been requested to supply a list of 42 marine products including fish, crab and prawn. The pet project will function under the module called as ‘Ammaa’ — All Manufacture Material Available Avenue, which will procure wholesale materials from manufacturers and sell the items at 30-40 per cent cheaper rates, the official said adding that nine places in Chennai are now under study for operation of Amma weekly markets.
“Amma market is going to be an instant hit among public and there are media reports hinting sale of air conditioners and refrigerators at a cheaper price and if this is going to happen it will be a boon for the middle class and the poor,” said civic activist Aarni Srinivasan.
