Can an iconic marketplace symbolising Bengaluru’s rich cultural diversity be transformed from a chaotic urban mess to an aesthetic, functional, pedestrian-friendly space? Negotiating this tricky challenge, the Gandhi Bazaar redevelopment project is now nearing completion. But street vendor protests and congestion concerns over a narrowed main road threaten to shift the focus away from the big picture. The big picture, as articulated by design consultant MayaPraxis appointed by the Directorate of Urban Land Transport (DULT), is this: A spatial infrastructure plan that enhances the market as a vibrant and inclusive social space that is financially viable, safe, accessible, clean, green and comfortable for all. The project’s intent was to redesign the entire space as inclusive, flexible, gender sensitive and future-ready. Has this vision been realised or have traffic concerns taken centrestage? Visible transformation A reality check showed a complete transformation. The project is still a work in progress, but the once chaotic streetscape has made way for wide, open walking spaces, clearly earmarked vendor areas and parking spaces, aesthetic signage and street furniture. Water, sewage, …