The Cross River State Government has commenced the construction of new market for roadside traders at Mariam market.
The Commissioner for Environment, Mr Mfon Bassey, who was accompanied by the Head of Local Government Administration for Calabar Municipality, Mrs Christiana Elemi yesterday visited the new site in Calabar.
They were accompanied by member representing Calabar Municipality in House of Assembly, Mr Efa Esua and traditional rulers.
Our correspondent reports that the market is directly opposite the Marian market, inside the premises of Calabar Municipality, behind the Unity Bank.
Bassey told newsmen that the new site had been designed to accommodate shops, parking space, a canteen among other modern facilities.
He lamented that the roadside traders had erected illegal structures along the drive way and water channels.
Bassey disclosed that the new market would create sanity along the Marian way and also reduce traffic and allow for free flow of water during the rainy season.
He lamented that most flooding activities in the area was caused by the blockade of drainage system by some traders who have erected structures on the water ways.
He assured that upon completion, traders in the affected area would be relocated to the new site.
He said that the state government was committed to restoring and sustaining a clean and green environment for businesses to thrive.
Elemi said that road side traders in Marian market have defaced the serene environment and the original design of the market.
She said that the new market would also have water facilities with a view to promote high standard of hygiene within the market premises.