Karbala transforms abandoned lot into contemporary market, providing stability for vendors and shoppers

KARBALA — The Al-Maamalji area in Karbala has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from an abandoned space overrun with weeds and debris into a modern market. The new facility caters to residents of Al-Maamalji and Al-Jam’iya, while also drawing shoppers from nearby areas along both sides of Al-Hur Road.

The initiative has provided street vendors, who previously operated illegally on sidewalks and streets, with a formal space to sell their goods. This shift has eliminated penalties from local authorities while improving their working conditions. According to Nasir Hadi, head of the Karbala Municipality Revenue Division, similar market projects are planned for neighborhoods including Al-Wafaa, Al-Milad, Dur Al-Hajar, and Shuhada Saif Saad.

The market includes refrigerated storage facilities, enabling vendors to preserve fruits and vegetables and enhance the overall shopping experience.

“We used to sell goods on the streets,” said vendor Nasser Al-Hasnawi. “Now we have a permanent place to work. We finally feel stable. This market is organized, and prices are reasonable. Plus, we now have refrigerated storage, so our produce is no longer exposed to weather conditions that could spoil it.”

Shoppers have also welcomed the change. “We’re happy that Al-Maamalji has its own market now,” said customer Mukhlid Khudair. “Before, we had to travel far to markets like Al-Hur or Al-Aamil, but now we have a local market where there was once only a waste dump.”

Hadi explained that the Karbala Municipality completed the Al-Maamalji market within a short timeframe, spanning an area of 3,000 square meters and accommodating 40 commercial shops. The municipality’s ongoing efforts to establish organized markets in other neighborhoods aim to eliminate illegal street vending, improve the city’s appearance, and create new job opportunities.