Messi’s Kochi Match: Kaloor Shops to Stay Shut for Month

Kochi has gone into excitement mode as football legend Lionel Messi is set to take the field at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kaloor, for an upcoming international friendly match. However, the build-up to the event has taken an unexpected turn after authorities in Kochi ordered all shops and commercial outlets near Kaloor Stadium to remain closed for one month ahead of the match.

The Ernakulam District Administration took the decision following reports from police officials who expressed concerns over traffic congestion and crowd management during the event. As crowds are expected to swell massively in the stadium’s surrounding areas, shutting down nearby commercial establishments is seen as a preventive step to ensure the safety of both fans and residents.

According to officials, approximately 40,000 to 45,000 spectators are likely to attend the match, where Messi and his team will play against a select international side. The authorities want all focus to remain on maintaining strict security arrangements, controlling vehicle movement, and avoiding crowd-related issues.

Deputy Commissioner R. Prashanth stated that shops, kiosks, eateries, and vendors within a 500-metre radius of the stadium will remain closed from October 25 to November 25, citing “logistical and safety reasons.” He added that special passes will be issued to local residents and emergency services to ensure essential activities are not affected.

While football lovers across Kerala have welcomed the government’s efforts to organise the match smoothly, local traders expressed disappointment at the long closure order. Many shopkeepers said the decision would hurt daily business, especially with the festive season approaching.

A local shop owner near Kaloor Stadium remarked, “We understand the excitement for Messi’s visit, but a full month closure is too harsh. Many small traders depend on daily sales.” The Traders Association of Kochi has reportedly requested that the closure period be reduced to fifteen days instead of thirty.

Despite the restrictions, the mood across Kochi remains electric. Football fans are booking tickets, decorating local streets, and even painting walls with murals dedicated to Messi. Several schools have announced special screenings of the friendly match, making it a truly once-in-a-lifetime event for Kerala’s football-loving youth.

The Kerala Police, meanwhile, are planning to deploy over 800 officers and special task units for enhanced security during the event. Crowd barricades, CCTV surveillance, and drone monitoring will be introduced around the Kaloor area to maintain order.

Tourism experts believe that Messi’s visit could bring international attention to Kochi, boosting the city’s reputation as a potential sporting destination. Hotels and travel agencies have already reported a sharp rise in bookings, with many fans from across India and neighbouring countries expected to travel for the match.

Even though the closure order may temporarily impact local trade, officials argue that the long-term benefits—including global exposure, tourism revenue, and improved infrastructure—will outweigh the short-term inconveniences.

As Kerala prepares to welcome football’s biggest star, one thing is certain—the streets of Kochi will beat to the rhythm of Messi’s magic, even if the shops remain closed for a while.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies