Chandigarh :
The ‘Bhoomi Pujan’ ceremony for the renovation of Shastri Market was performed by former MP and Additional Solicitor General of India Satya Pal Jain, marking the formal start of the market’s redevelopment project.
Calling Shastri Market the “heartbeat of Chandigarh’s social, cultural and economic life,” Jain said he has been associated with the market since his early days in newspaper distribution. He said the redevelopment will transform it into a modern and model commercial space.
The ceremony was attended by former Mayor Davesh Moudgil, councillor Damanpreet Singh Badal, and senior officials of the Chandigarh Administration, including Chief Architect Rajiv Mehta.
The project, estimated to cost between ₹6–8 crore, will be fully funded by shopkeepers. It includes raising shop floors, increasing ceiling height, installing solar power systems, CCTV surveillance, Wi-Fi facilities, water tanks, and organised parking.
Shastri Market Welfare Association president Mukesh Goyal said the redevelopment is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. He added that the project aims to improve infrastructure while preserving the market’s commercial importance.
Former Mayor Davesh Moudgil said the initiative will strengthen urban infrastructure and could serve as a model for redevelopment of other markets across Chandigarh.
Several shopkeepers’ association members and local dignitaries were present at the ceremony.
