Mark-It Ernakulam Market Complex : Where Tradition Meets Transformation

Kochi, a city constantly evolving, now boasts a market that blends tradition with modernity, reflecting the ever-changing spirit of the city. The newly revamped Ernakulam Market, prepared to modern standards by Cochin Smart Mission Limited for the Kochi Municipal Corporation , was inaugurated on December 14 by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan in the presence of LSGD & Excise Minister Shri MB Rajesh , Shri P Rajeev Minister for Industries , Law Coir & Mayor Shri M Anil Kumar. This state-of-the-art market complex, built on 1.63 acres of land owned by the corporation, stands as a symbol of Kochi's growth. With a construction cost of Rs 72 crore, it spans 19,990 square meters across four floors.

The Ernakulam Market has long been a part of Kochi’s heritage, intertwined with the city’s history. The new market complex, designed with modern market concepts, incorporates the unique features of Kochi’s culture while addressing contemporary needs. By providing a model for urban development, it promises to contribute significantly to the city’s growth, particularly in sectors such as tourism. The thoughtful integration of waste management systems and parking facilities further enhances its appeal, aligning with the state’s Waste-Free New Kerala campaign. This progressive initiative not only aims to keep Kerala’s streets and markets clean but also sets a benchmark for future developments.

The completion of this project marks the end of a long-standing issue—the overcrowding and waste management problems that plagued the old Ernakulam Market. Through CSML's dedication, the vision for a modern and efficient market has become a reality, offering a better environment for traders, workers, and residents alike. The Ernakulam Market is now a source of pride not just for the people of Kochi but for all of Kerala. The minister acknowledged the hard work of CSML, the Kochi Municipal Corporation, and the local community for their cooperation in ensuring the successful realization of this project.

The history of the Ernakulam Market dates back to the colonial period, reflecting the city’s commercial evolution. Kochi, known as the commercial capital of Kerala, has always had markets that played a pivotal role in the local economy. CSML took on the immense responsibility of transforming this market, recognizing its role as a central part of Kochi’s urban development. Over the years, the market has become integral to the daily life of the people, offering everything an average Kochi resident could need, from vegetables and spices to flowers. Although several plans to modernize the market had been proposed over the years, it was only under CSML’s leadership that these plans began to materialize.

Markets serve as a reflection of a country’s economic and social life, and CSML took this responsibility seriously. Many international markets, built with structure and design in mind, not only meet the daily needs of citizens but also serve as entertainment and tourism centers. For more than two decades, various plans were proposed for the Ernakulam Market’s development, but none came to fruition—until now. CSML has ensured that the market’s natural aromas of vegetables, flowers, and spices are preserved, without being overshadowed by unpleasant odors or the challenges of outdated infrastructure.

The construction of the market, carried out by Crescent Contractors Private Limited, was completed using Smart City Mission funds. The project, costing Rs 72.69 crore, occupies a 1.63-acre site and includes a basement, ground floor, and three additional floors. Before the market was built, a temporary market was set up on an adjacent site at a cost of Rs 5 crore to accommodate the traders. Over 200 traders moved to this temporary setup without obstacles, a testament to the smooth coordination between public representatives, trade organizations, and local residents.

The new Ernakulam Market is designed to meet all the needs of modern-day shoppers and vendors. The market complex is equipped with facilities such as a dedicated loading and unloading area, solar lighting, fire safety measures, security cameras, rainwater harvesting, a 30,000-liter water tank, car parking, ramp access, lifts, and an efficient waste management system. The project also includes meticulously designed drainage and sewage systems. With 275 shop rooms, the market houses a variety of vendors, including 130 vegetable shops, 52 stationery shops, 28 meat and fish shops, and specialized areas for bananas, fruits, and eggs. The ground floor alone accommodates 183 shops, with future expansion options available on the upper floors.

The top floor of the market is dedicated to a food court, offering visitors a chance to relax and dine while shopping. The first floor is reserved for meat and fish vendors, with specialized features such as tempered glass partitions to contain odors and ensure better air circulation. To meet energy needs, 40 KW solar panels have been installed, and smart meters are in place for all shops. The market is also powered by two diesel generators, ensuring a continuous power supply.

In terms of accessibility, the market offers four lifts, including two for passengers and two for goods. It also provides 82 toilets across various floors, ensuring convenience for all visitors, including vendors. The market has implemented comprehensive waste management systems, with 15 compactors provided to CSML for enhanced waste disposal. Organic waste is processed through an advanced aerobic composting system, converting it into useful fertilizer. A 100 KLD Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) has been set up in the basement to treat liquid waste in compliance with PCB standards.

Parking at the market is plentiful, with 101 spaces available for cars, light motor vehicles, and small trucks. The design also caters to the loading and unloading needs of the vendors, and a ramp has been installed for the convenience of vendors using light motor vehicles.

The market, built as part of the Smart Cities Mission, will be handed over to the Kochi Municipal Corporation for ongoing management. The corporation will handle the allocation of stalls, rental rates, and the overall maintenance of the market. A defect liability period of five years has been established for civil construction and electrical systems, with a three-year maintenance contract in place for the contractor. After this period, the maintenance responsibility will be transferred as per government decisions. The newly inaugurated Ernakulam Market stands as a model of modern urban infrastructure, blending Kochi’s rich history with forward-thinking solutions that will benefit its residents and visitors for years to come.

As the renovated Ernakulam market emerges as a cornerstone of Kochi's urban development, it is essential to reflect on the often-overlooked heroes behind such monumental achievements. As the revolutionary poet Bertolt Brecht once asked, "Who built the seven gates of Thebes? Books are full of the names of kings. Did kings build them by lifting up the rough rocks?"

History often forgets that the true heirs of human accomplishments are not the rulers, but the workers who toil with unwavering dedication. Kerala’s many triumphs, including projects once deemed impossible, are not only the result of governmental will, but also the relentless efforts of countless workers who poured their sweat and labor into realizing these dreams.?

The new market, designed to reflect Kochi’s dynamic spirit, stands as a testament to modernity, with state-of-the-art facilities embedded in its complex structure. Its completion in just two years, despite numerous challenges, was made possible by the dedication of hundreds of workers.

Our gratitude is owed to every individual whose effort has shaped this project and contributed to Kerala’s growth. Your strength and sacrifice are the true foundation of the state’s future. As we continue this journey, let us forge ahead together toward a brighter, new Kerala.