Mysore commercial facility may become reality

Growth-projected Mysore is adding more commercial facility with two major constructions planned by the Mysore City Corporation (MCC).

The four-decade delayed Makkaji Chowk complex in the heart of the city has been revived with the MCC calling a national-level tender. The MCC has already initiated steps to clear the 4.2-acre land. Lorry, tempo and taxi parking has been shifted and cycle-stand owner has been asked to follow suit.

Three major commercial roads, including Mysore's main thoroughfare Sayaji Rao Road provide access to the land. It faces the majestic Palace and the busy K.R.Circle. The imposing heritage structure, the Town Hall is on its other side.

The area was acquired from shop owners as long back as in 1977, after shifting the Gujari, the crowded junk-shops, after much resistance. The plan to build a commercial structure since then went on being postponed. The building owners had a double benefit in the meantime "� compensation from the MCC and lease amount from those to whom they transferred their shops for continuing business.

After four decades, the MCC has begun earnest efforts now to build a three-storey commercial complex of around two lakh square feet. The land offers feasibility for over 800 shops.

The corporation council has unanimously endorsed the proposal, while Deputy chief minister Siddaramaiah has assured the MCC, that the selected tender would have the government's approval.

The proposal under BOT (build, operate and transfer) envisages a basement plus three floors with modern facilities, including parking. The Infrastructure Development Corporation is associated with the project as a consultant.

The successful bidder has to provide plans for a commercial complex in keeping with the needs of the busy shopping area and if successful invest and begin construction soon after. Some national and even international level builders have already evinced interest in the project, and they include one from Singapore, an official said. August 27 is the last date for filing tenders.

Similar was the fate of the Mayura Complex on a one-acre land, in the not so busy area as the Makkaji Chowk.

Nearly a quarter of a century ago, then President Zail Singh laid foundation for it and work began soon after only to suffer halfway. Subsequently, it was entrusted to Khoday's, but again it came to a halt.

Since 1993, the skeleton structure with basement and half-raised pillars has remained neglected, overgrown shrubs hiding the planned two-storey structure of 42 shops on a 50,000 square land area in Krishnamurthy Puram.

Tenders have been called for this complex also, along with the Makkaji Chowk complex.

"We have proposed two options "� outright sale or BOT (build, operate and transfer)," MCC commissioner Ibrahim told Business Standard, adding, "When the two major structures come up, Mysore will have an overall 2.5 lakh square additional commercial facility."