Surat: Tension has once again surfaced among traders affected by the Surat Metro Rail project, with shopkeepers near Maskati Hospital alleging that they have not received compensation despite prolonged disruption to access and business activities.
Traders from Commerce House and Aryaman Arcade have raised strong objections over the alleged delay in compensation from the Metro authorities. According to the traders, the prolonged construction-related restrictions have severely affected commercial activity in the area.
Many Shops Reportedly Await Resolution for Loss
According to the affected traders, Many shops have been awaiting a resolution. The traders allege that agreements have not been executed with these 213 shops. They further claim that even in cases where agreements have already been completed, the promised compensation has not yet been paid. The issue has reportedly increased frustration among shopkeepers who depend on regular customer movement and road access for their businesses.
Road Closure Affected Entire Commercial Zone
Traders claim that the movement route in the area was completely closed and affecting the commercial stretch from Maskati Hospital to Mahidharpura Post Office.
According to them, the restrictions and Metro-related construction activity disrupted normal customer access and significantly affected businesses operating in the area. The traders say that the prolonged disruption has created financial difficulties for several businesses and that their demand for appropriate compensation has remained unresolved.
Traders Demand Compensation from Metro Authorities
The affected shopkeepers have demanded that the authorities take immediate steps to resolve their compensation-related issues. They have questioned why compensation has allegedly not been released even after prolonged discussions and why agreements remain pending for a large number of affected shops. The traders are now seeking a clear timeline from the authorities for completing the agreement process and releasing compensation.
Protest Warning at SUDA Bhavan Metro Rail project site
The traders have issued a strong warning that if the compensation issue is not resolved soon, they will launch a dharna and protest at the SUDA Bhavan Metro Rail project site.
The proposed protest could put additional pressure on the authorities to address the concerns of businesses located along the affected stretch. The traders have indicated that they are prepared to intensify their agitation if their demands are not addressed.
Compensation and Rehabilitation Remain Key Concerns
The issue highlights one of the challenges associated with major urban infrastructure projects such as the Surat Metro.
While Metro construction is intended to improve public transportation and reduce traffic congestion in the long term, construction activity can temporarily affect businesses, road access and pedestrian movement. GMRC’s social and environmental management documentation for the Surat Metro project specifically recognises issues related to disruption of access to shops and roads and includes provisions for assistance relating to compensation and grievance redressal.
A previous protest by traders in Surat’s Bhagal area also involved allegations of prolonged business losses, restricted access and demands for compensation during Metro construction.
Surat Metro Construction Continues
The Surat Metro Phase-I is being developed across two corridors covering approximately 38 stations, with the project designed to provide faster, safer and more sustainable public transportation while reducing congestion on city roads.
However, affected traders say that development should also take into account the economic impact on businesses located around construction zones.
The Commerce House and Aryaman Arcade traders are now waiting for the authorities to address their compensation demands. If a resolution is not reached soon, the proposed protest at SUDA Bhavan could become the next major demonstration by Surat traders affected by Metro construction.
.Also read, 5-Year-Old Girl Dies in Surat After Suspected Food Poisoning, Four Family Members Hospitalised
Watch Latest News Videos on KRH News: Click Here