–over 100 stalls, sanitary block to be built by month end

Story and photos by Indrawattie Natram

MINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development Sonia Parag has assured Charity Market vendors that they would soon be able to continue their activities in a newly-constructed plaza.

During a recent visit, Minister Parag, who was accompanied by Minister within the Ministry of Local Government Anand Persaud and Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Deodat Indar, met with the vendors.

Minister Parag announced that the market’s shed has been completed on schedule, and that the construction of a sanitary block and stalls are expected to be finished by the end of June.

Over 106 outlets will be ready to accommodate the affected vendors, including those currently vending nearby, in the state-of-the-art market.

Minister Parag emphasised the importance of a smooth transition, and committed to holding the contractor accountable.

“We are here to listen to you,” she said, adding that the construction is being done in phases.

She told the vendors that the shed has been completed, and the next phase entails the construction of the stalls.

“Now we are moving to do the stalls; we have the layout of the stalls here for you to see and decide,” the minister added.

Vendors expressed an interest in the dimension of the stalls, recalling that previously they occupied 12×14 stalls.

Minister Parag called for the vendors’ cooperation, and reassured them that their interests are being addressed.

Meanwhile, Minister Persaud expressed pleasure at meeting with the vendors again, and reiterated that the market is 70 per cent complete.
He highlighted that the new market will be a showpiece, resembling a mini-mall equipped with emergency amenities and easy access.

Minister Indar listened to the vendors’ concerns, and pledged his support. He assured them that their livelihood is a priority, and that there will be no fee increases.

“We want you all to continue your trade, but I want you all to work with us. We understand, and we are here to work with you all,” Minister Indar said.

The vendors welcomed the ministers’ visit, and are eagerly anticipating the market’s opening.

Chairperson of the Charity/Ursara Neighbourhood Democratic Council, Chandrawattie Coomal expressed satisfaction with the consultation, and said she’s optimistic that all issues will be resolved.

“We are happy about this; it was very fruitful, and we are thankful for such meetings. We are hoping that all the issues will be resolved,” one vendor said.

The new market, contracted to Builders Hardware and General Supplies, will cost the Government of Guyana $286 million. The new structure will replace the previous market, which was destroyed by a fire on July 6, 2023.