Traders protest against Walmart in North Andhra

Vizianagaram : It will not be smooth sailing for American retail giant Walmart, who has plans to set up a depot in Vizianagaram Town on the lines of the one in Vizag city. Members of the Vizianagaram Chamber of Commerce have decided to protest the setting up of Walmart in Vizianagaram Town.

Speaking to newsmen, president of the Vizianagaram Chamber of Commerce P.S.C Nageswara Rao said, “The voices opposing the move to set up Walmart in Vizianagaram are growing louder. Traders have planned a bandh and protest on August 10 (Saturday). Over 1,500 shops and establishments and industries in Vizianagaram district will be participating in the bandh and over 2,000 people will be participating in the protest march to the district collector’s office.” The protest rally will begin from the SBI Main Branch Junction and will end at the Collector’s office.

A few weeks ago, through the single window clearance system, Walmart had applied for approvals and chosen a suitable land to open its depot. Walmart is yet to get all the clearances.

Vizianagaram Business Association leader K. Prakash said, “Over one lakh people, including, traders, workers, transporters and others would lose their livelihood if Walmart is allowed in Vizianagaram.”

Other members added that Walmart would destroy the local economy leading to the closure of trading and distribution outlets in Vizianagaram. Expressing that Walmart will hit business and employment, members of Vizianagaram Chamber of Commerce sent a memorandum to Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and Union finance and commerce minister requesting them not to allow Walmart in Vizianagaram.