Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Nov 17: The long-awaited Central Market and Fish Market redevelopment project at Hampankatte, coming up under the Smart City Mission through a public–private partnership, has entered its final phase. Mangaluru Smart City Limited aims to open the facility to traders and the public by January.

Work on the new Central Market began nearly two-and-a-half years ago. The initial phase progressed swiftly, but construction slowed over the past few months. Officials, however, have assured that the pace has been stepped up and the project is likely to be completed within the next three months.

The tender for the new market complex had been finalised before the COVID lockdown. But once construction costs shot up post-lockdown, the contractor showed reluctance to begin work. The issue was later resolved through negotiations. Heavy rains further delayed the start of construction.

The new Central Market is coming up on 3.61 acres at an estimated cost of Rs 114.03 crore. The structure will have a total built-up area of 5 lac sq ft spread across six floors, including the ground floor.

Key features of the new Central Market

• Two basement levels reserved entirely for parking

• 1.50 lac sq ft to be handed over to the Mangaluru City Corporation

• 3.50 lac sq ft dedicated to commercial and trading activity

Final works pending

• Installation of shutters for stalls

• Final internal and external electrical/mechanical works

• Painting and finishing touches

• Road levelling and drainage works around the market

According to officials, 80–85% of the total infrastructure work has already been completed.

The old Central Market building at Hampankatte—home to vegetable, fruit, fish, and meat stalls—stood for 64 years before it became structurally unsafe and parts of it began to collapse. Considering the city’s growing population and commercial activity, the Smart City Mission undertook the task of redeveloping the market. The old structure was fully demolished nearly three years ago, paving the way for a modern market complex now nearing completion.