MUMBAI: The crumbling municipal markets in the city are set to get a facelift, starting mid October. While the market policy on redevelopment is yet to be finalised, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has decided to take up urgent comprehensive repairs of 51 markets, including beautification of the premises.

The decision was taken recently. The shortlisted markets include the ones in Khar, Borivli and Malad. These markets are not on the redevelopment list. "We have already floated tenders and the proposal will be submitted to the standing committee next week. Once we get the approval, repairs work will start immediately,'' said additional municipal commissioner Manisha Mhaiskar. "This will be followed by redevelopment, although not immediately,'' Mhaiskar added.

The repairs will be carried out without making any major changes to the structures.

After the Crawford Market redevelopment controversy, in which the BMC was accused of helping a private developer, the civic body decided to change its policy. Three years ago, the BMC approved the redevelopment of the heritage Crawford Market by a private developer. Soon after the decision, there was a public outcry. Promptly, plans to let private developers redevelop markets were shelved, and a new policy is in the process of being framed.