Notice Issued to Several Shops at Esplanade’s Maidan Market, Asked to Vacate by August 26

Kolkata | Staff Reporter

Several shopkeepers at Maidan Market in Kolkata’s Esplanade have received notices directing them to vacate their shops by August 26. The notice, issued through the Public Works Department (PWD), is part of preparations for the construction of the Esplanade Metro Station under the Joka–Esplanade Metro Corridor project.

Officials clarified that the move is not an eviction drive. Instead, the market is being asked to shift temporarily to facilitate construction work by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL). According to the project plan, the new underground Esplanade Metro Station will be built directly beneath the existing Maidan Market.

The notices have sparked concern among traders, many of whom fear disruption to their businesses during the relocation period. However, authorities have assured that the temporary relocation is necessary to ensure timely completion of the metro project and that suitable arrangements for traders will be considered.

The metro expansion is expected to improve connectivity across Kolkata and significantly ease traffic congestion in the city’s central business district.