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Colonial Market Thrives for a Century on Sundays
17 Sep
Summary
- The market has survived for nearly a century, catering to railway workers.
- Around 250-300 vendors now operate at the five-acre market weekly.
- Infrastructure issues like swampy grounds and lack of restrooms persist.
The Ponmalai Santhai, a Sunday market in Trichy's colonial-era railway workshop township, has sustained its vibrancy for nearly a century. Established around 1926-1928 to serve railway workers and officers, it continues to thrive even as many historical structures have vanished.
This bustling market now spans five acres, with 250 to 300 vendors setting up shop every Sunday. Business commences early at 6 am and extends to 10 pm, drawing customers from towns like Namakkal and Karur. The market has adapted over time, with recent additions including pet sales and tattoo stalls, appealing to a wide demographic.
Vendors offer a diverse array of products, from exotic pets and quail eggs to home decor, groceries, electronics, and sports apparel. Social media has also boosted sales, with some vendors reaching wider audiences for items like vintage watches.
Despite its enduring legacy, the market faces significant infrastructure challenges. Heavy rains transform the grounds into swampy areas, and a lack of restroom facilities inconveniences both vendors and visitors. Retired railway employees have urged for improved fencing, restroom construction, and commemorative infrastructure.
Railway management stated that the market's operation is contracted out. The current licensee is reportedly arranging for mobile toilets to address sanitation concerns, as required by their contract.
