Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) has decided to undertake a comprehensive redevelopment of the Priyadarshini Market Complex at CRPF Square, one of the city’s prominent commercial hubs.
The decision was taken following a site visit and interaction with shop owners by Housing and Urban Development Minister and BDA Chairman, Krushna Chandra Mahapatra, on Friday.
Ekamra MLA Babu Singh, BDA Vice-Chairman Chanchal Rana, and senior BDA officials were present during the discussion with traders and stakeholders.
Speaking on the occasion, Mahapatra said that a preliminary assessment of the decades-old structure indicated that repeated repairs and maintenance would not provide a sustainable long-term solution. “Considering the condition of the building and future commercial needs, BDA has decided to redevelop the market complex with modern infrastructure and enhanced public amenities,” he said.
Constructed by BDA in 1987, the Priyadarshini Market Complex is spread over 1.44 acres and houses 152 shops, including 72 units on the ground floor and 80 on the first floor, along with 100 vending platforms (pindis), two restaurants, and five office spaces. The units were originally allotted to local traders on a monthly licence and rental basis.
BDA Vice-Chairman Chanchal Rana said the redevelopment proposal was finalized after several rounds of consultations with shop allottees. He assured that traders would receive necessary support during the construction phase, including temporary relocation arrangements and compensation as per applicable norms.
The proposed project aims to ensure optimum utilization of the prime commercial land through the construction of a modern market complex equipped with adequate parking facilities, advanced fire safety systems, improved infrastructure, and enhanced public conveniences.
The redevelopment is also expected to create additional commercial units, strengthen the city’s commercial ecosystem, and generate higher revenue for BDA while providing a better shopping experience for citizens.
