Crawford market revamp: 232 shops get eviction notice

MUMBAI: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has sent eviction notices to 232 shop owners in Crawford market to start phase two of the renovation project.

Officially known as Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Mandai, its renovation will cost BMC around ₹300 crore and will take three years to complete the entire structure.

“For now, around 154 mutton shops and 78 other shops have been asked to vacate. We have provided them alternate accommodation in a transit shed. Once they evict, work for the new structure will begin. The remaining shops will get eviction notices in phases as there is not much space in the transit camps,” an officer from the markets department said.

The shopkeepers have time till March-end to vacate the premises. “The renovation work for phase two will begin in full swing once the eviction is done. The main structure, which will accommodate shopkeepers, will be ready in 18 months,” Sangeeta Hasnale, assistant municipal commissioner (markets), said.

Phase two of the project includes the demolition of 18 structures. The demolition will begin from the China Market adjoining the main Crawford Market. Three new buildings will

be constructed instead, which will be ground plus two or ground plus three structures and will be interconnected to the basements. Each building will have two basements – underground and a lower ground basement – for parking.

“The basements will help decongest roads and will have three entry and exit points. The basements would be able to accommodate 166 cars and 10 goods vehicles,” the officer said.

The new market will also have a traditional look with domes and tiled roofing. “It will have a central air conditioning system; restored heritage fountains; a musical fountain; fire-fighting system and washrooms,” the officer said.