Bhubaneswar, March 17: A market complex developed by the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) in ward No. 10 is lying neglected. The reason appears to be apathy on the part of the BDA. The plaster is peeling off at several places and garbage can be seen strewn everywhere.

During its inauguration in 1990, the complex had two blocks. Later on one was converted into a college hostel while 60 shops in the other block appear to be in urgent need of repair. “The roof needs to be repaired. Rainwater seeps in through the ceiling. Even electrical fittings have been stolen,” said a shopkeeper.

Another shop owner added: “Out of the 60 shops, the number of original owners who paid the entire amount would be around 10. The rest are yet to pay the entire amount.”

Malay Tarai, secretary of the Krishi Udyog Market Complex, said: “Without any repair or maintenance work, the BDA served a notice four months ago to the shopkeepers for a one-time settlement plan. But the money demanded in the notice was 50 per cent more than the actual dues. The shop owners are willing to pay the right amount.”

Senior BDA officials were unable to give a satisfactory explanation. “It is an old project. I do not know anything about the Krishi Udyan market complex,” said a senior engineer of the maintenance wing.