Consultations are ongoing with vendors at the East Ruimveldt Market to determine the most suitable relocation plan as the government works to ensure business activities continue smoothly throughout the redevelopment process.
During discussions following Friday’s sod-turning ceremony, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Priya Manickchand assured vendors that every effort would be made to avoid interrupting their livelihoods.
“I don’t want to put anyone out of a single day of work,” the minister said, noting that the goal is to create a modern market while allowing vendors to continue earning an income throughout the construction period.
Several relocation options are being explored, including consolidating vendors into vacant sections of the existing market, completing sections of the new facility in phases, and using prefabricated structures.
The minister explained that the use of containers would be costly and would not provide the most practical working environment for vendors, particularly those who require storage space or operate wholesale businesses.
The vendors welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the planning process, with several suggesting that construction be carried out in phases to reduce disruption and allow businesses to continue operating from completed sections of the market as the work progresses.
The meeting also highlighted the diverse needs of vendors, including wholesalers who require larger storage areas and business operators.
The ministry will continue engaging vendors as relocation plans are finalised to ensure the redevelopment is carried out with minimal disruption while delivering a modern market that better serves businesses and residents.