On paper, the Bangalore Development Authority's plan to develop four markets at a cost of Rs. 409 crore appears impressive. The plan is to transform the Seshadripuram, Malleswaram, K.R. Puram and Jayanagar markets from grubby old bazaars to swank, high-rise trade centres with amenities such as lifts and multi-level parking, comparable only to the best private sector malls in the city.
But the plans have remained on paper ever since 2010-11 when the BBMP handed over the four markets to the BDA for a facelift. Although the necessary budgetary allocations were made in 2010-11 itself, it was carried forward to 2011-12, and will again be carried forward now. While there have been several delays owing to prolonged litigation, the fault, in equal, lies with the BDA administration as well, admits a senior official.
All indications are that the allocation for the project will be increased in the budget for 2012-13. Sources in the BDA say that Chief Minster D.V. Sadananda Gowda promised increased budgetary support for the project in a recent closed-door, pre-budget meeting as well.
The Malleswaram project (Rs. 108 crore) is the only one that has seen some progress. A senior official from the engineering section told The Hindu that the tender process is in the final stages and the detailed project reports submitted by private agencies vying for the project have been sent to the BBMP for concurrence.
The development of the Seshadripuram market (Rs. 28 crore), which involves the demolition of the Ken School of Art as well as the Seshadripuram Police Station, was initially held up due to a legal tussle. Although these encumbrances have since been removed, the project continues to face delays. BDA officials say tenders have been called for and bids are expected.
Negotiations are on with the traders of the K.R. Puram market and the scope of the project is expected to change to accommodate the demands of the traders, which includes a designated area for the popular weekly santhe (fair). The preparation of a detailed project report will commence only after the negotiations are completed.
The progress on the Jayanagar market makes for a curious case. Developers have shown reluctance to bid for the project and despite calling for tenders twice, BDA has not been able to get viable submissions. Tenders were called for a third time earlier this month but those who participated this time have shown little promise, said a senior BDA official.
