Repaired Ima Keithels handed over to vendors
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR

Imphal, January 22 2018: Municipal Administration, Housing and Urban Development (MAHUD) Minister Thounaojam Shyamkumar today handed over the newly renovated buildings of Ima Keithel to the women vendors of Khwairamband.

On November 7 last he had promised that the renovated buildings of Ima Keithel would be handed over to the women vendors on the day of Phairen Panchami.

The markets were handed over at the 'Re-opening function of Ima Keithel Market No.2 (New Market) and Market No.3 (Laxmi Market)' organised by the Imphal Municipal Corporation (IMC) today.

The Ima Keithel Market No.2, New Market (Imoinu Ima Keithel) and Market No.3, Laxmi Market (Phouoibi Ima Keithel) were badly damaged in the earthquake that hit the State on January 4, 2016.The two market buildings were renovated at the cost of Rs 21,98,21,000 with the State PWD as the implementing agency.

The work order was given on October 26, 2016 .

Altogether 728 women vendors are occupying Market No.2 and 1195 women vendors Market No..3Speaking as the chief guest, Shyamkumar appealed to the women vendors to maintain the sanctity and traditional culture of the market which has been followed since ages.

He also appealed to the women vendors to keep the surrounding of the market clean, stating that the Ima Keithel which is the only women market in Asia is the face of the State.

He said that tourists are also attracted to Ima Keithel, so "we need proper maintenance and follow the age old traditional culture.

It is our pride and all sections of the society need to collaborate to keep the market clean." The Minister prayed that the tragedy that struck the markets never happens again in the future.

The function was also attended by L Lokeshwor Singh, Mayor, IMC as president; Bobby Waikhom, Secretary, MAHUD; N Gitkumar Singh, Director, MAHUD and L Tombi Devi, Chairperson, Bazar Committee, IMC as guests of honour.

MAHUD officials, IMC staff and Corporators and women vendors were also present at the occasion.

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