Delay in Surat Maskati Metro Project Leaves Shopkeepers Struggling

Surat : Surat’s Maskati Metro Station area, a key commercial hub, is facing severe disruption due to the prolonged delay in the Gujarat Metro Rail Corporation (GMRC) project. Local shopkeepers and traders, who depend on steady footfall for their livelihoods, are grappling with significant financial losses as road closures and halted compensation payments exacerbate their struggles. The project, which was supposed to bring infrastructural advancement, has instead created hardship due to incomplete work, lack of labor, and machinery breakdowns.

The most pressing issue plaguing shopkeepers is the inaccessibility of their businesses. With main roads blocked and only a seven-foot-wide narrow lane available for two-wheelers, customers are reluctant to visit the area, leading to dwindling sales. Business owners report a drastic decline in customers, as larger vehicles cannot navigate the congested space, further reducing foot traffic. The ongoing dust, debris, and lack of order have only added to their misery, with many finding it nearly impossible to conduct their day-to-day operations.

According to traders, the metro construction project, which commenced over two years ago, has made sluggish progress, with only 20% of the work completed in 26 months. Contractors cite a shortage of labor and frequent machinery breakdowns as primary reasons for the delay. Despite repeated assurances from GMRC to expedite the work, no significant improvements have been observed. Traders have also pointed out the inefficiency of the contractor, who has allegedly failed to take necessary actions despite reminders from GMRC.

Another major concern is the suspension of compensation payments from GMRC. Initially, affected shopkeepers were assured financial assistance to mitigate their losses. However, these payments have ceased, worsening the financial strain on small business owners. Many traders are now struggling to cover operational expenses, rent, and salaries, with no alternative arrangements made by GMRC or the government to support them during this crisis.

Tausif Multani, leader of the Surat Maskati Metro Project Affected Committee, voiced the frustration of the business community, stating, “The metro project was meant to enhance the city’s infrastructure, but instead, it has turned into a nightmare for local traders. Our businesses have suffered immensely due to prolonged delays, inaccessible roads, and halted compensation. We demand immediate action from GMRC and the government to resolve these issues before more businesses are forced to shut down.”

Shopkeepers have outlined several urgent demands to alleviate their difficulties. They are calling for the swift completion of the metro project, resumption of compensation payments, reopening of blocked roads, and better planning to prevent such disruptions in future development projects. Their frustration is mounting as they see no concrete solutions in sight, with GMRC failing to offer an alternative plan that allows them to sustain their businesses while construction continues.