“The Floating Market Is An Idyllic Pit Stop For Commuters To Rest, Relax, Stop For A Bite And Purchase Goods”
The Floating Market along Bastian Mawatha in Pettah is a novel concept. Those familiar with the precinct that once existed there can appreciate the pleasing transformation complete with promenades, boardwalks and floating decks that complement the silent ripples of the Beira Lake.
Pettah is where the main bus stand of the city is situated, functioning as a hub for commuters in and out of Colombo and at peak hours plays host to the height of frenetic activity.
A concept spearheaded by Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Secretary to the Former Ministry of Defence and Urban Development, the Floating Market is an idyllic pit stop for commuters to rest, relax, stop for a bite and purchase goods. From above one can scan the entirety of the expanse, even while taking a stroll along the trim promenade beside the bustling street.
Across its length and breadth the Floating Market exudes an aura of recreation and commercial activity. From the entrance, steps lead down to a narrow boardwalk that runs over the waters to reach the other side. You can stroll over to pursue a series of pavilions or stalls. Before reaching the shops, however, a ‘water restaurant' emerges midway, poised along the waters and serves as an ideal refuge to soothe hunger pangs.
Another boardwalk or timber platform is set along the length for a leisurely stroll beside the water's edge. Intermittently are places to sit and unwind in the shade of garden umbrellas. The sellers here were once street hawkers and have now been provided with a more lucrative location to sell their wares. Individual stalls laden with goods can be identified by variety and there is much to explore. Everything from clothes, shoes, CDs and toys, to fruits, sweetmeats and burgers can be found here.
In addition to the stalls there are six floating platforms that also sell produce, drinks and other commodities. Boats tethered at the road side jetty are intended for steering along the waters stocked with produce in the true spirit of the floating market.
There are many commuters who wander into the premises drawn to its charm and easy atmosphere. And there are many places to sit for idle chatter or simply to while away the minutes as activity unfolds all around. Temple trees ornament these spaces as do sculptures and flower beds, which in their aesthetic appeal, are in stark contrast to the surrounding city.
Tourists and locals alike visit the site throughout the day. At peak hours and days the market is alive with feverish activity as throngs of people crowd the spaces. Many stalls remain open until ten in the night to make the most of a day's commerce.
And in the evening, the floating market assumes another life, blinking with lights that veil the water with reflections. Cool breezes simply add to the charm. To people-watch, enjoy a snack or browse through numerous offerings, the floating market is the latest of public spaces that graciously lends itself to busy commuters and curious shoppers.
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