Itanagar: Itanagar witnessed a significant stride in its urban development today as the newly upgraded Smart Vending Zone at Ganga Market was officially inaugurated. The momentous occasion was graced by Arunachal Pradesh Urban Affairs Minister Balo Raja and Itanagar MLA Techi Kaso, signifying a commitment to modernising the city’s infrastructure and enhancing the livelihoods of local vendors.
Spearheaded by the Itanagar Smart City Development Corporation under the overarching Smart Cities initiative, the project is strategically designed to foster cleanliness, improve convenience for both vendors and shoppers, and promote environmental sustainability within the city’s bustling marketplaces.
The inauguration ceremony saw the esteemed presence of key dignitaries, including local MLA Techi Kaso, Urban Affairs Commissioner Vivek Pandey, CEO of Itanagar Smart City Corporation Dahey Sangno, and the Corporators representing Ward No. 4 and Ward No. 10, underscoring the collaborative effort behind this transformative project.
In a symbolic gesture of empowerment, Minister Raja distributed vending licences to the deserving vendors, formally entrusting them to the care of the respective ward corporators, marking the beginning of a new chapter for their businesses.
Commencing on January 15, 2023, the ambitious project has culminated in the creation of modern prefabricated steel structures at a total cost of Rs 1,379 lakh. Ganga Market now boasts a built-up area of 1,030 square metres, while Gandhi Market offers 261 square metres, collectively providing 113 well-equipped vendor spaces.
The newly established vending zone is equipped with a comprehensive suite of modern amenities designed to enhance the operational efficiency and comfort of vendors. These include digital weighing machines, secure under-storage units, convenient charging sockets, individual wall fans, efficient air ventilation systems, ample lighting, and readily accessible RO water coolers. Furthermore, the entire complex is under round-the-clock CCTV surveillance, ensuring a safe and secure environment for all.
To guarantee uninterrupted services, the vending zone is equipped with essential power backup systems, including a 60 KVA diesel generator and UPS. Embracing sustainable practices, the project also incorporates a rainwater harvesting system. Additional facilities include a goods lift for ease of transportation, clean and hygienic toilet facilities, dedicated office space for vendor committees, and a smart LED display board for disseminating important information.
Demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental responsibility, the project features a fully automatic composting machine and a substantial 17,000-litre underground water tank.
The newly inaugurated Smart Vending Zone is poised to bring about a significant positive impact by elevating the working conditions for local vendors and simultaneously offering a more organized, cleaner, and ultimately more pleasant shopping experience for the residents and visitors of Itanagar.
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