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New market complex in Manipur
By A Special Correspondent
The Manipur government is going ahead with the construction of a controversial multi-storey shopping complex at 'Ima Keithel', the 423-year old largest all-women market in India. Although the government had planned the project much earlier (the Governor in his speech had promised to execute the project in March 2003), little progress has been made due to opposition from women vendors. Now the government is determined to commence work on the project at any cost and is even thinking of new legislation to pave the way for smooth execution of the project.
The project will be developed through 100 per cent grant from the Central government. The Union Ministry of Urban Development has already sanctioned around Rs 45 crore for building a modern supermarket complex. The project is expected to be completed within two years from the date of commencement of work. The complex will have adequate parking facilities and other amenities for vendors and customers.
The government has finished preparations for setting up a temporary marketplace within Khwairamband bazaar itself. The existing vendors will be given stalls in the new complex once construction is completed.
However, protests from women vendors could intensify in the coming days as the movement has got political overtones.
Sports complex at Senapati
The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has reportedly approved, in principle, the sanction of Rs 94.50 lakh for construction of the district sports complex at Senapati in Manipur. However, the state government will have to bear 50 per cent of the project cost if it is to approach the Union government for release of Central assistance with cost escalation, if any, to be borne by the state/sponsor. The Union government has also stipulated two years with immediate effect for claiming the assistance and obtaining necessary permission from the relevant authority.
New market complex in Manipur
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