Smartest city Bhubaneswar to have night bazaars

BHUBANESWAR: With Raahgiri becoming a huge hit, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) is now planning to set up night bazaars in the city. The concept has generated enthusiasm among people when the BMC posted the idea on Facebook seeking suggestions from netizens. The wall of Smart City Bhubaneswar page is flooded with comments and suggestions.

A Facebook user, Bishakh Rout, suggested Ekamra Haat and Janata Maidan as ideal locations for the night bazaars. "I am currently based in Taipei. I have seen myriads of night markets here. There is a clearly outlined area assigned to the vendors and they are open for business the whole week," said Rout.

Many users endorsed the idea and are in favour of selecting new locations for the bazaar while some have suggested developing the Unit-I market for the purpose as it attracts impressive footfall and is centrally located.

"Setting up a night market is welcome but I am wondering why the Unit-I market can't be improved? The market is spread over a large area. If praking facilities are improved itwill be a great place," says Arpita Mahapatra.

"The location around Ashok Nagar and government quarters at Unit-II between Rajmahal Square and Master Canteen is the best place," suggested P Suresh Kumar Patra, another user.

The BMC commissioner, Krishan Kumar, said they have five locations on mind for the night market. "We have selected Ekamra Haat, Khandagiri market, Unit-II, periphery of BMC-Bhawani mall and Infocity area. Multiple agencies will be involved to make the concept successful," Kumar said, adding, "the night bazaars will focus on handicrafts and food. We have thought of organizing music shows and cultural programmes on Fridays and Saturdays," he added.