In anticipation of the international friendly match featuring Lionel Messi’s World Cup-winning Argentina squad against Australia, scheduled for November 17 at the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium in Kaloor, Kochi, the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) has issued a directive impacting over 100 local businesses. These tenants, primarily traders operating around the stadium, have been ordered to close their establishments for an entire month, starting from October 25, citing security protocols for the high-profile event.
Upon receiving these notices, the Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium Shop Owners Association promptly convened with GCDA chairperson K. Chandran Pillai. They appealed for a reduction of the shutdown period, arguing that a month-long closure would severely disrupt their businesses and livelihoods. However, their request was deemed non-negotiable by the authorities.
Discussions also touched upon the possibility of compensation for the affected traders. The GCDA clarified that any decision regarding financial recompense falls outside its jurisdiction and would require approval from the Kerala government.
In response, the traders have submitted a memorandum to the Sports Minister, Industries Minister, and the GCDA chairperson. Their aim is to gain clarity on the methodology for calculating proposed compensation and to ensure its timely disbursement.
P.R. Jijikumar, president of the association, highlighted the significant impact of the closure: “The shutdown will affect over 100 tenants, directly impacting around 1,000 individuals, including staff. When their families are considered, nearly 4,000 people will feel the repercussions. While temporary relocation was discussed, a sudden shift on such short notice is largely impractical for most of our businesses.”
This isn’t the first time traders have faced such extensive closures. During the FIFA Under-17 World Cup matches hosted at the same stadium in 2017, shops were shut for 43 days. Despite a ₹25 lakh security deposit collected from sponsors for compensation at that time, only a select few traders received substantial amounts, with the majority receiving less than ₹1 lakh.
Furthermore, a clause added by the GCDA in 2021 explicitly states that traders are not entitled to compensation for shutdowns during matches. This policy is already in effect during Indian Super League (ISL) matches held at the Kaloor stadium, where shops close on match days without any financial relief.
As the high-profile match draws closer, preparations are in full swing in and around the stadium, anticipating unprecedented crowds for this major sporting event.