The much-publicized Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) market complex at Ulubari-Sarania, built to offer permanent space for hundreds of small traders, now stands unused just months after its grand inauguration. Though the building features new shutters and tiled floors, not a single shop has opened, leaving traders frustrated and locals questioning the delay. Inaugurated on May 13 by PHED Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah and Guwahati Mayor Mrigen Sharania, the 103-shop complex was hailed as a major boost for local trade.
For many vendors working from makeshift stalls for decades, this was a long-awaited upgrade. However, despite receiving keys, shopkeepers like Subrata Dutta and Raju Das say the relocation hasn’t happened. Some cite absentee allottees, while others suspect political interference is behind the delay. Locals fear the complex may become another “white elephant” — built for show but left empty. Traders are now urging the government to resolve the impasse and allow them to start business. Without urgent action, even future GMC markets in Beltola and Ganeshguri risk facing the same fate — locked buildings with no livelihoods inside.
