The merchants at the Mango mandi in Mullipalayam in Vellore have demanded basic amenities at the venue.
President of the Vellore Mango and Fruit Commission Agents Association, C Vasudevan, said, “The mandi generates more than half a tonne of organic wastes everyday. But, it is not being cleared everyday, inviting cattle to wander inside the mandi and create a nuisance. They even damage fresh fruits kept for loading.”
The wastes were being cleared only once in 10 days, he added. The mandi had been functioning adjacent to the busy Bangalore Road on a 2.1 acre plot of land in Mullipalayam since 1963. Secretary of the Association, T G P Mani, said a cement tank was constructed by the members of the mandi three years ago when the then Collector had asked them to build the tank and collect garbage at one place. Following this, the members of the then local body, Shenbakkam Town Panchayat had assured to clear the garbage everyday. But, the garbage was not being cleared regularly.
Prakasam, a labourer, noted that the mandi functioned in full swing only in summer during the mango season. Hundreds of people worked in the peak hours and the drinking water facility would surely help.
Councillor of Ward 57, P Mahalakshmi, said steps were being taken to provide high mast light inside the mandi within three months. Steps were also being taken to lay cement roads inside the mandi for the lorries.