Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation Doubles Budget Allocation for Salt Lake Market Repairs
The Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has significantly increased its financial commitment to the upkeep of community block markets across Salt Lake. In its latest budget proposal for the upcoming financial year of 2026-27, the civic body has allocated Rs 2 crore specifically for the repair and maintenance of these markets. This marks a substantial increase from the previous year's allocation of Rs 1 crore, effectively doubling the budget to address ongoing renovation needs.
Mayor Outlines Progress and Future Plans
During the budget speech, BMC Mayor Krishna Chakraborty highlighted the progress made in several markets. Partial renovation work has already been completed in key locations including GD, ED, BD, EC, CA, and AB-AC markets. The mayor emphasized that further renovations are necessary, with initiatives underway to renovate AG, AA, and AE markets. There are a total of 16 community markets in Salt Lake that fall under the maintenance purview of the BMC, making this a comprehensive urban development effort.
Scope of Renovation Work
The repair and renovation activities conducted by the BMC encompass a wide range of improvements to ensure market infrastructure is modern and safe. Key components of the work include:
- Repairing and replastering of roofs and exterior walls to prevent structural issues.
- Installing and repairing paver tiles to enhance walkability and aesthetics.
- Upgrading electrical lines to meet current safety standards and support market operations.
- Refurbishing toilets to improve sanitation facilities for vendors and shoppers.
- Other general renovation tasks aimed at overall market revitalization.
Revenue Sources and Specific Market Projects
BMC MMiC (Markets) Rajesh Chirimar explained that revenues for these projects are generated from various sources, including rent collection from market stalls, regularization fees, and charges for ownership name changes. This financial model supports the ongoing maintenance and upgrade efforts.
For the GD block community market, authorities are planning a second phase of renovation work. Chirimar noted that approximately 50% of the renovation was completed in the first phase, which cost about Rs 1.3 crore. The second phase will proceed based on recommendations from consultants to ensure optimal outcomes.
Addressing Past Incidents and Competitive Challenges
Officials also addressed specific challenges, such as the Baisakhi market, where a detailed project report of Rs 70 lakh for revamping was sent to the state urban development department for approval after initial tenders failed to attract responses. This market gained attention about three years ago when a portion of its corrugated roof in the vegetable and fish section collapsed, injuring five fish vendors, underscoring the urgency of these renovations.
One of the driving factors behind sprucing up the Salt Lake markets is to enhance their competitiveness in the face of rising online shopping trends. An official stated, "Many people now purchase daily essentials through online platforms. There is a pressing need to develop these markets to increase footfall and encourage more visitors to buy their daily necessities locally." This strategic move aims to revitalize local commerce and provide a better shopping experience for residents.
