Sambalpur, April 18: The development authority has proposed to develop an integrated market complex in the city.

"Eight architectural firms gave their elaborate presentations on April 15. The Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (Idco) will select one of them for the purpose," said authority chairperson Bijaya Mohanty.

The integrated market complex would be built on 1.14 acres near the municipal swimming pool at Modipara. Earlier, the private bus stand of the city was operational on this land. However, the terminus was shifted to Ainthapali in 1999. The land has been lying unused since then.A few shops came up on a portion of the land. However, most of them have been closed.

Idco had sought the entire planning and design for the proposed complex from the firms. The government agency will float tenders for the investors, after the planning, design and estimate of the project are finalised.

However, the authority has also decided to request Idco to execute the project itself. It wants the proposed market complex to house some offices as well. Besides, there is also plan to include the three tanks near the identified land and develop a boating club, park and a food plaza.

"The tanks belong to the corporation. We have also decided to discuss with the civic body to include the tanks in the integrated market complex," said Mohanty.

Residents have welcomed the move. "The place where the authority has proposed to build the market is a valuable piece of land. The market complex will generate employment," said local resident Bishal Mohapatra.