In a significant step towards urban development and women’s empowerment, Nellore city is witnessing the construction of its first-ever ‘Smart Bazaar’. The innovative market is being developed along a 760-metre stretch beside the Jaffer Saheb Canal, between the Satyanarayanapuram Centre Bridge and Maipadu Gate Centre. The project spans the 4th and 5th divisions of the Nellore Municipal Corporation (NMC) and is advancing swiftly, with completion expected within the next two to three months.The Smart Bazaar, backed by a budget of ₹8.4 crore, will feature 200 shops constructed using 50 modular shipping containers—each container accommodating four shops. Additional rooftop food stalls will be installed atop these structures, enhancing the marketplace experience.This project is personally monitored by Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MAUD) Minister Dr. Ponguru Narayana, the local MLA for Nellore City, along with NMC engineers. Human Resources Development and IT Minister Nara Lokesh is expected to inaugurate the Smart Bazaar once it’s ready. Positioned as a flagship initiative under the coalition government’s urban innovation mission, the project aims to provide both modern infrastructure and sustainable retail spaces.”This initiative is more than just a marketplace—it is a powerful platform for women to achieve financial independence and self-respect,” a senior municipal official said. Nearly 200 women are set to benefit directly from the project through livelihood opportunities, making it one of the largest women-focused initiatives under the current administration.Funding has been mobilized from multiple sources, including ₹3 crore from MEPMA (Mission for Elimination of Poverty in Municipal Areas), ₹3 crore from the Swachh Andhra initiative, and the remainder from beneficiary contributions and bank loans. Each shop owner will be eligible for a ₹1.5 lakh loan from partnering banks.The Smart Bazaar will accommodate a wide range of businesses such as fast-food stalls, tea kiosks, textile and boutique outlets, vegetable stalls, and ice cream parlours. The marketplace is being designed with essential facilities like clean drinking water, electricity, Wi-Fi, public restrooms, round-the-clock security, and designated parking areas.With about 35–40% of the work already completed, officials are optimistic about finishing the remaining construction within the coming three months.
Get your Dream Job
