Bengaluru: A five-storey multi-level parking complex in Gandhi Bazaar, built at a cost of Rs 22 crore under Bengaluru Smart City project, is set to open soon. The facility, constructed on a 1,469 sqft site after demolishing an old BBMP building, can accommodate 142 cars and has 48 commercial shops in its basement and ground floor.The project, which faced initial opposition from residents and legal hurdles before being revived in 2023, is now complete. BBMP officials said the new facility will ease congestion in Gandhi Bazaar and DVG Road, where visitors often struggle to find parking. “This is one of the oldest and busiest markets in Bengaluru. On festival days, people have to park nearly a kilometre away. We believe this facility will ease the burden on surrounding roads,” said a senior BBMP engineer overseeing the project. Locals, however, are cautiously optimistic. “Parking is a huge problem here, especially during weekends and festivals. This new complex should help, but BBMP must ensure it is managed well and affordable for the public,” said Suresh R, a Gandhi Bazaar shopkeeper. Flower vendors, too, voiced concerns. “We don’t want to be forced to shift into commercial shops inside the building. If we are allowed to continue on footpaths without harassment, this facility will be useful,” said Lakshmi Gounder, a flower seller near the market. Officials said the parking complex is meant to complement the market, not to displace street vendors. “The idea is to reduce congestion, provide convenience to shoppers and preserve Gandhi Bazaar’s traditional character,” a BBMP official said.
