The condition of some of Kolkata’s busiest areas, like Sealdah Metro station and the Bada Bazaar market, highlights serious concerns about urban hygiene, infrastructure, and civic responsibility. Open gutters, strong urine odors, and piles of waste create an overwhelming atmosphere that makes it difficult to breathe or navigate the area comfortably.
For visitors, the experience can be jarring, as these crowded spots reflect an alarming level of neglect. Even for locals, many of whom have become accustomed to the state of these areas, it is a reminder of the pressing need for infrastructure improvements and sanitation reforms. The environment in these areas illustrates a public health concern that affects not only the aesthetics of the city but also the health and well-being of its residents and visitors alike.
What’s more disheartening is that these conditions are often present in places that serve as key hubs for the city’s food distribution network. Bada Bazaar, a popular market where fresh vegetables are sold and distributed to different parts of the city, operates amid open drains and unclean surroundings. Vendors are frequently seen sitting above or near exposed gutters, with their goods precariously close to areas that emit strong, unpleasant odors.
For a city with such rich cultural and historical significance, the state of these markets reflects a significant lapse in basic sanitation. It raises questions about food safety and hygiene, as the vegetables and other perishables sold here ultimately find their way to household kitchens. The absence of a clean and well-maintained environment for food distribution exposes citizens to potential health risks.