Sambalpur: The first phase of work to convert the century-old Golebazar market, which is a prominent landmark in Sambalpur city, into a multi-story shopping mall has already been completed, officials informed Monday.
A total of 25 shops have already been constructed in the first phase, officials of the Sambalpur Municipal Corporation (SMC) stated.
SMC commissioner, Vedbhusan said Monday that out of the 25 shops completed, 24 will be allocated to existing traders while the remaining one will be kept as a store room.
“The 24 shops earmarked for the shopkeepers will become operational very soon. Discussions have already started so that the owners shift to the new shops as soon as possible,” Vedbhusan informed.
Official sources said that work is in phases to convert Golebazar market into a modern mall. Initially work on the ground floor has been completed. Very soon work will start to set up the remaining three storeys. Like the first phase, the remaining work will also be undertaken under corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities of various industrial houses operating in Sambalpur district.
Currently, there are around 180 shops in the Golebazar market area. Also, 200 vegetable vendors operate in the market which is spread over 1.5 acres of land. Officials said that all the traders who operate in the market will be rehabilitated once the entire structure is completed.
The Golebazar market was established by Sambalpur Municipality in 1903. The market was initially named after British King Edward VIII. Later on, it got its present-day name ‘Golebazar’ because of its circular structure. The bustling market has become a part and parcel of residents of this town as it provides everything under one roof. It is a one-stop destination for all and sundry.
PNN
