KOLKATA: Kolkata has its very own floating market, one quite similar to that of Bangkok's and shopkeepers are reportedly loving it. They have even went on to say they could be Venice. Situated just off Eastern Metropolitan Bypass, the floating market at Patuli was inaugurated on January 24. Around 150 boats are anchored on a lake right next to the bypass with 228 shopkeepers using them to sell their products.
The feat was accomplished by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who had the task of rehabilitating 228 people on her hand, borrowed the idea from Bangkok, and spent £900,000 to complete it. The market comes under the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority. Kashinath Khobra, a vegetable seller said, “Mamata Banerjee has made it happen. This is the first such market in India. I am sure people will come to see it.” Fish seller Shibani Jana said, “I have had a shop on land for 30 years. Now I have stepped into water. Let us see what Mother Ganga does, whether she keeps us afloat or drowns us.”
