75 pet shops in Chennai’s Broadway market shut, traders go on protest

Seventy-five pet shops were shut at the century-old Broadway Sunday Pet Market in Georgetown, Chennai, affecting dogs and other animals sold in the area. The Greater Chennai Corporation acted following a resident’s court petition alleging traffic congestion and unhygienic conditions posing health risks. A corporation official stated that traders had operated without licences for nearly a century while occupying roads and obstructing traffic, adding, “We have only taken action related to road encroachment on Sunday.” Nearly 100 traders protested, demanding permission to continue trading or receive an alternative space, and the drive was temporarily suspended while sales continued. Police personnel assisted authorities during the monitoring. A corporation official stated that authorities would soon enforce the ban over missing licences and inspect animal conditions alongside the Animal Welfare Board. The civic body plans to consult stakeholders regarding a long-term solution. The court case is scheduled for a hearing next week.