Hindustan Times 17.11.2009
Redeveloped civic markets to be clean, hygienicMunicipal markets would get a facelift next year. Now those dirty and unhygienic nearby markets that were keeping you at bay, will be made better by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), if not totally redeveloped.
There are in all 92 such markets in the city out of which 20 will undergo complete redevelopment. However, due to recession, the developers have not started with the work yet.
Rest of the 72 markets will be undertaken for a quick touch-up. Leaking roofs, unclean gutters and broken toilets are what vendors and customers in the BMC owned markets have to deal with.
Nearly Rs 11 crore has been earmarked for the repairs of the old market buildings in the budget for 2009- 2010. But little has actually been done to make them worth a visit.
“Twenty markets will be re-developed but the work does not seem to start soon due to the downturn. Renovation work cannot be done there, as it will have unnecessary burden on the developers. For the rest of the markets, at least the civic body will call for tenders for the facelift,” said Manisha Mhaiskar, Additional Municipal Commissioner (markets).
The plan will ensure a proper seating and counters for the vendors, new sheds, a good drainage system, flooring, electricity and toilets. “We will also make sure that after the renovation, we have people to maintain them,” Mhaiskar added.
