The floating market shopping complex on Bastian Mawatha in Colombo, which was renovated at a cost of Rs. 35 million, was reopened yesterday afternoon.

However, a group of traders who were present at the scene alleged that the shops in the premises have been allocated to other people, not to those who deposited funds in this regard.

The floating market shopping complex was first opened in 25 August, 2014 during the tenure of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa as the Defence Secretary. Incurring a expense of Rs 312 million, the project bulit 103 shop units in the premises.

Built under the 'Wenaswena Colombo' concept, this shopping complex was dilapidated due to lack of maintenance during the last good governance government.

Accordingly, businessmen and traders alleged that the neglected site was being used for various immoral activities.

Businessmen and the public accused the site of being used for various immoral activities.

Accordingly, on the instructions of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, the floating market was renovated. The renovated floating shopping complex was opened to the public yesterday afternoon with the participation of a group of Ministers and Parliamentarians.

However, when inquired regarding the allegations levelled by the traders from Director General of the Urban Development Authority Prasad Ranaweera, he noted that the shop units were taken back due to violation of the lease agreement.