Municipal Commissioner G R Aloria, however, said the VMC was trying to convince vegetable sellers to close the market by 2 pm so that carpeting could be done.

In a somewhat unprecedented move, the VMC has embarked upon a programme to do carpeting in the area and improve drainage and storm water drain facilities. The corporation will also undertake removal of vendors who encroach upon roads, besides levelling the stones in the market.

Aloria told Express Newsline that the road in the market was in bad shape and added that carpeting work would cost an estimated Rs five lakh.

The upgradation will be done in the phased manner, he said. After carpeting, the VMC will take up improvement of storm water drains and drainage lines. An old fountain in the area will also be revived.

The civic chief said additional toilet facility would be also provided in the Market. The BJP MLA from Raopura, Yogesh Patel, is also eager to contribute from the MLA's quota, Alria said. The total project cost is yet to be calculated.