Traders in Mysuru oppose demolition plans for historic Devaraja Market and Lansdowne Building

Traders in Mysuru are opposing Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's plan to demolish the century-old Devaraja Market and Lansdowne Building for restoration. They want the structures renovated without demolition, as legal disputes regarding the market's restoration are still pending in the Supreme Court. The Devaraja Market Traders Association claims most of the building remains strong, despite some collapse. They allege intentional damage occurred in 2016 to push for demolition. Meanwhile, the Lansdowne Building has been in disrepair for 12 years, with traders seeking clarity on its future. Heritage experts suggest that only parts of the Devaraja Market need repair and that restoration is possible without demolition. They encourage community efforts to persuade the government to preserve both heritage sites.