The ambitious redevelopment project of Goregaon's historic Topiwala market has hit another roadblock as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) announces fresh tenders for a new contractor. Launched six years ago, the project has been marred by delays and cost escalations, with the initial budget of Rs 131 crore ballooning to Rs 166 crore.
Historic Roots and Ambitious Vision
Named after Anant Shivaji Desai, famed for his cap manufacturing business and dubbed 'Topiwala,' the market's original building was demolished in 2018. The BMC's vision was to replace it with a 16-story establishment, housing a vibrant market, a civic theatre for 800 people, and quarters for municipal staff. The transition wasn't smooth for the 265 licensees who called the old market home. Following the demolition, they were relocated nearby, marking the beginning of logistical hurdles. Despite commencing redevelopment efforts in 2019, progress faced unprecedented hurdles with the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. Negotiations over cost escalation caps with the previous contractor also proved futile, leading to the cancellation of the old tender.
Challenges and Prospects
"The project has witnessed considerable delays and a significant cost escalation," stated Prakash Rasal, Assistant Commissioner of BMC's Markets Department. "Fresh tenders have been issued, and pending work will be undertaken by the new contractor."
With time ticking away, delays have become the hallmark of this project, compounded by a cost increase of Rs 35 crore. The grand vision for the Goregaon market now includes a multifaceted complex spanning multiple stories, encompassing not just a market but also a civic theatre and accommodations for municipal staff. Fresh tenders are the beacon of hope to resume work based on the original blueprint. Amidst the uncertainties, vendors from the erstwhile market are voicing their concerns, demanding larger spaces in the redeveloped market. However, senior officials from Goregaon's P/South ward remain cautiously optimistic, projecting the project's completion within the next three years, contingent upon the swift appointment of a new contractor.
Share
Tweet
