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Mangaluru: The much-awaited Kankanady market project in Bendur ward, located in the heart of the city, remains incomplete even after nearly seven years of construction.

The market work, taken up by the city corporation, still has several pending tasks. At present, vendors are carrying out business activities on roadside footpaths. The flower market also operates along the roadside, and there is no proper space for auto, taxi parking or bus stops. Officials said these issues are expected to be resolved once the project is completed.

In the Lower Bendurwell area, the main road has been awaiting concreting for several years. Though most roads in the ward have been developed, some areas lack proper drainage for rainwater flow, causing inconvenience to residents.

Heavy traffic is often seen near Balamatha bus stand, as many rural buses stop along the main road. The ward mainly consists of residential complexes, with a large number of residents living abroad. The area also has key institutions such as St Agnes educational institutions, ESI Hospital, SCS Hospital, Unity Hospital, Athena Hospital, and Mangaluru Nursing Home, along with several commercial establishments including jewellery shops.

Drainage issues reported:
Residents have pointed out that sewage water is flowing in an open drain in one part of Lower Bendurwell. Old pipeline systems in the ward are also causing recurring problems.

Key demands by residents include:

• Early completion and opening of Kankanady market
• Concreting of the Kankanady–Bendurwell main road near Bendurwell junction
• Development of Balamatha junction
• Asphalting of roads from Balamatha junction to Kesari Hotel area
• Completion of pending road works in Lower Bendurwell

Infrastructure gaps:

Several roads, including parts of Merker Hill Road, Lower Bendurwell Road, and Balamatha–Mission Compound Road, are yet to be concreted. Roads around the Kankanady market area also need improvement.

There is no proper rainwater drainage system in many parts of the ward, including Vaas Lane, connecting roads, Mission Compound Road, and Bethany Road. This ward also houses a major pump house that supplies drinking water to the city.

Residents can share their grievances and demands with authorities through a WhatsApp number provided for the ward.