Strengthening a Heritage: New Market Becomes Earthquake-Resistant

Kolkata's New Market, also known as SS Hogg Market, will be upgraded with seismic bars to enhance earthquake resistance. The initiative, led by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation and backed by Jadavpur University experts, involves temporary shop closures and aims to protect the century-old market's structural integrity.

Kolkata's iconic New Market is set to undergo a significant transformation to become earthquake-resistant. The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has developed a detailed project report to install seismic bars, following suggestions from geophysics and civil engineering experts at Jadavpur University.

These reinforcements are designed to absorb and redistribute shock waves during an earthquake, with similar technology employed in regions like Singapore and Japan. KMC is taking a meticulous approach, ensuring that heritage structures are protected while balancing the needs of the market's traders.

As construction progresses, some stores may face temporary closures. However, the cooperation of shop owners is anticipated, as the safety of this century-old commercial hub takes precedence.