Kozhikode’s Palayam Market Shifts to Kalluthan Kadavu Amidst Trader Protests
Kozhikode’s historic Palayam Market has officially been relocated to Kalluthan Kadavu. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the new market complex on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, despite significant protests from a section of traders and laborers who opposed the move.
The inauguration ceremony was preceded by a period of high tension in the Palayam area. Hours before the Chief Minister’s arrival, groups of traders and workers gathered, with one faction vehemently opposing the market’s relocation and another supporting the new facility. This led to a large-scale confrontation on the roads, resulting in pushes and shoves, which the police attempted to control.
The state-of-the-art market at Kalluthan Kadavu is constructed on five and a half acres of land, following the rehabilitation of slum dwellers from the area. Mayor Dr. Beena Philip had previously stated in a press conference that the new facility is expected to become one of the largest vegetable markets in Kerala.
This project marks the first major initiative implemented by the Corporation under a public-private partnership model. The entire project incurred an expenditure of approximately 100 crore rupees, with the Kalluthan Kadavu Area Development Company undertaking its execution.
The contract for the project was signed in 2009. The construction of the market complex commenced after the successful rehabilitation of the slum residents at Kalluthan Kadavu. The Corporation had acquired the land for the development, investing around 27 crore rupees in the process.
The New Palayam Market at Kalluthan Kadavu boasts significantly superior facilities compared to its predecessor. The complex is designed with six blocks, encompassing an expansive area of 3.5 lakh square feet. It includes ample parking space on the upper levels of the main block, accommodating up to 500 vehicles simultaneously. The facility is equipped to house approximately 300 fruit and vegetable shops, along with provisions for allied businesses.
During the inauguration, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan addressed the protests, stating that some individuals find it difficult to acknowledge positive developments, and such opposition need not be entertained. He remarked on the “dramas” unfolding, noting that some who initially supported the protestors were no longer present. He questioned the motive behind rejecting beneficial initiatives, emphasizing that competition should be confined to elections, and post-election, development projects should receive support.
The Chief Minister also criticized the opposition for boycotting the inauguration ceremony, pointing out the absence of Congress-League members and the local MP. He questioned whether constant opposition was the role of the opposition, urging them to support good causes. He asserted that while the opposition might choose to ignore visible achievements, the public is discerning and understands the situation. Vijayan concluded by expressing his belief that the opposition would not rectify their stance, but the people would recognize the truth, highlighting the project as a model for the state.