Imphal: The women vendors of Ima Keithel, the iconic Mothers’ Market here, started on Monday to re-occupy the two quake-hit and unsafe buildings of the complex they have been advised not to enter.
The women said they will soon re-start their business in the two buildings of the Mothers’ Market complex, which were severely damaged in the January 4 earthquake and rendered unsafe.
Over 2,000 women vendors were left without shops and their only means of livelihood since the buildings were damaged in the earthquake on January 4.
These women then pinned their hopes on a state government plan to construct a temporary market for them at the Thangal Bazar area, which had to be scrapped after widespread protests led by local Bharatiya Janata Party legislator Khumukcham Joykishan.
The government launched construction at the Thangal Bazar area, virtually leaving no space for the heavy traffic, inviting criticism that the plan was outlandish and impractical.
“We have waited long for the temporary markets,” said Sushila, a fish monger.
Sorojini, who sells handloom products at the market, told IANS that they have Hobson’s choice.
So far, the government has not intervened and the women vendors and customers are at great risk in case another major earthquake strikes the state. (IANS)
