MADIKERI: The Madikeri City Municipal Council on Thursday evening began the process of demolishing the private bus stand complex that was affected in a landslide during the recent floods. The bus stand was built in 1928.
“It was a place to hang out for us as school kids then — nearly 40 years ago. After school, we used to go to the complex to get groundnuts from one Haneef who had a small shop there,” recalls Cariappa, an employee of a local firm in Madikeri.
Like Cariappa, several residents of Madikeri have fond memories attached to this 90-year-old building, which will soon be replaced with a new high-tech complex.
The old-time shopkeepers of the complex are perplexed by the new development. Vinod, owner of Sapthagiri Sweets (which used to be in the complex) says, “The CMC never visited the spot until now. However, now they are demolishing it. I have my rented shop here from the last two decades. The recent renewed agreement was done for 12 years, however, 5 years are still pending. Yet, they are demolishing the building ... they will call for new tenders once the new complex comes up.”
When questioned, CMC Commissioner Ramesh said, “We cannot rent out the place to old-timers. A Detailed Project Report will be drawn and new bidders will be invited. We are yet to estimate the cost for the new complex.”
Meanwhile, relief works at the complex area will begin soon and natural calamity funds will be used for the same.