Visakhapatnam Member of Parliament M. Sribharat on Wednesday called for the modernisation of the Gnanapuram wholesale vegetable market, stressing the need to align the city’s key commercial hubs with future urban growth and logistical requirements.

During a visit to the market, he interacted with traders, workers, and farmers, and observed that while commercial activity remained robust, existing infrastructure was inadequate. He highlighted an urgent need to strengthen facilities such as parking, loading and unloading zones, internal roads, and sanitation systems.

Drawing a parallel with Chennai’s Koyambedu Wholesale Market Complex, Mr. Sribharat suggested that establishing an integrated market yard at a location with better highway connectivity would streamline transportation and logistics. “Well-planned wholesale markets serve as economic engines for urban centres. While there may be initial apprehensions regarding relocation or modernisation, the long-term benefits for traders, farmers, and consumers will be significant,” he said.

The MP noted that hundreds of families depend on the Gnanapuram market, including nearly 60 traders, 500 workers, and 100 clerical staff. He assured that any development initiative would be implemented in a phased manner to ensure livelihoods are not adversely affected. Representatives of the Vaishnavi Wholesale Vegetable Market Association accompanied the MP during his inspection.

Temple traditions

Earlier in the day, the Member of Parliament participated in the annual Jatara Mahotsavam of Goddess Polamma Ammavaru at Chillapeta in Bheemili constituency. Accompanied by his family, Mr. Sribharat offered special prayers and received Vedic blessings from the temple priests.

Speaking on the occasion, he emphasised that the worship of village deities is a cornerstone of India’s folk culture and that preserving these traditions is a collective responsibility. He added that such festivals play a vital role in strengthening communal harmony and social togetherness. During the visit, he also interacted with local leaders and residents of the ward, who were celebrating the temple festival.