BBMP to ‘cell’ city markets

BBMP to ‘cell’ city markets

July 14th, 2009
By Our Correspondent

Bengaluru, July 13: The city’s popular landmarks like the Russel market, Krishrajendra market and the Malleswaram, Seshadripuram , Cox Town, and more road markets could soon be going in for a much needed renovation.
The BBMP has set up a special market cell headed by a chief engineer for the upkeep of markets across the city and to provide them parking facilities and other infrastructure.
BBMP intends to take over all markets which have completed their lease period as directed to by the government and see that they are developed.
BBMP chief engineer (market cell) Devaraj says a detailed project report is being prepared for the purpose and facilities that will be provided at the markets for the convenience of the public. Of the 13 markets under BBMP’s jurisdiction, some will be a given facelift while others will be bulldozed and built afresh. The proposal has been sent to the government for its approval, according to sources. “City market which is located in the Central Business District (CBD) attracts a large number of people. So it is being given special attention. A survey has been ordered to study its infrastructure requirements, including parking space. Since a bus terminus is also proposed here, the market, parking space and bus terminus will have to be integrated,” BBMP sources said.
Roads around a three kilometer radius of the market will be improved. They may be widened to accommodate the huge number of buses and market-bound vehicles usually seen here. “Russel market has been in a dilapidated condition and needs to be rebuilt. But since it has heritage value there is opposition to bulldozing it. So it will be given a facelift instead,” said an official.