Bengaluru’s first air-conditioned underground market inaugurated after six years
Bengaluru has unveiled its first air-conditioned underground market, Palike Bazaar, following nearly six years of construction. The market, located in Vijayanagar, was inaugurated by chief minister Siddaramaiah on august 25. This ambitious project, modeled after New Delhi's Palika Bazaar, aims to provide a modern and comfortable environment for local vendors and small businesses.
Key Features of Palike Bazaar:
Cost and Construction: Built at a cost of ₹13 crore, the Palike Bazaar is the city’s first air-conditioned underground market. Construction began in 2018 and was completed after a significant delay.
Design and Layout: The market is divided into various sections to accommodate different types of vendors. It includes:
Section 1: Small Vendor Zone with 136 stalls
Section 2: Special Vendor Zone with 11 stalls
Nine General Vendor Zones for a diverse range of businesses
Amenities: The market features advanced facilities, including public address systems, 250 street lights for enhanced visibility, and strategically placed fire extinguishers for safety. A total of 79 market officers have been appointed to oversee operations.
Purpose and Impact:
The Palike Bazaar is part of a broader initiative by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to establish dedicated markets within the city. This effort aims to offer vendors a protected and climate-controlled space to operate, improving their working conditions compared to the harsh weather endured on the streets.
Chief Minister's Remarks:
Chief minister Siddaramaiah emphadata-sized the market’s significance in providing a safe and comfortable environment for street vendors. He highlighted that the market would protect vendors from extreme weather conditions like sun, rain, and cold. Siddaramaiah also reflected on his involvement in the project’s early stages, noting his approval of the initial funding when he was chief minister in 2017.
The inauguration of Palike Bazaar represents a significant step in modernizing Bengaluru’s market infrastructure and supporting local vendors with enhanced facilities.