Indian Express 16.09.2010
BMC to finally repair 51 old markets
sharvaripatwa Tags : corporation, development, mum Posted: Thu Sep 16 2010, 06:24 hrs
Mumbai: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has proposed to repair its 51 markets that are in dilapidated condition. The repairs will be carried out at an estimated cost of Rs 51 crore, according to L S Vatkar, city engineer. Over 5,000 traders have shops in these markets. “These markets have not been structurally repaired since many years except for some colouring or cleaning,” said Vatkar. “Under the new proposal, we are planning to replace old and broken slabs, repair toilets, sewerage lines and water connections among other things,” said Vatkar.The civic body had earmarked Rs 11 crore for the repairs of the markets in the current year’s budget. “The traders had been complaining of the dilapidated condition of these buildings as it has become dangerous to work here” said an official.
The department had conducted a survey of the municipal markets a few months back and had shortlisted 51 of the 72 buildings that needed urgent repairs, a senior official said. Of the markets which have been proposed to be repaired, 29 are in the island city while 22 are in the suburbs, the official added. According to another civic official, 20 buildings, for which redevelopment has been already planned, have been excluded.
The department has called for tenders for the repair work. Two tenders each have been called for the repair work of suburban markets, while 7 have been called for the repair work of markets in the island city. The proposal will later be tabled at the Standing CommitteeIn June this year, the improvements committee of BMC had rejected civic body’s policy on redevelopment of municipal markets.
