Aftermath of a Fire

Bangalore’s 85-year-old iconic Russell Market went up in flames in the early hours of 25 February, immediately setting off conspiracy theories.

Bangalore’s 85-year-old iconic Russell Market went up in flames in the early hours of 25 February, immediately setting off conspiracy theories. Damage was limited to grills and furniture, but that hasn’t stopped apprehensions that the civic body Bangalore Bruhat Mahanagara Palike, which owns the prime space, will use this as an excuse to raze the market and build a new one. A redevelopment plan for the market has been on hold for some years on account of opposition from shop owners. Built in 1927, generations of Bangaloreans have grown up shopping at Russell Market for vegetables, fruits, flowers and meat.

BBMP Commissioner MK Shankarlinge Gowda assured shopkeepers that no decision had been taken yet to raze the damaged structure.

Desperate shopkeepers have found space amid the ruins to set up stalls again, but the rancid air  leaves doubts and apprehensions in its wake.

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Anil Budur Lulla